2026 DISASTER PREPAREDNESS SALES TAX HOLIDAYS In previous years, Florida held temporary disaster preparedness sales tax holidays. Instead of these short-term events, the state has transitioned to permanent sales tax exemptions on specific disaster supplies year-round. Exempt items include: • Batteries: Standard household sizes. • Safety equipment: Fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and carbon monoxide alarms. • Generators: Portable gas or diesel generators. • Storage and anchoring: Ground anchor kits, tiedowns, and gas/diesel cans up to 5 gallons. • Weather protection: Waterproof tarpaulins (up to 1,000 sq. ft.), insect repellent, and sunscreen ALL IGATOR ALERT According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) alligator mating season occurs in May and June so an increase in activity, including aggressive and territorial behavior is possible throughout the month. In late June or early July, females build a mound nest of soil, vegetation, or debris and deposit an average of 32 to 46 eggs. Incubation requires approximately 63-68 days, and hatching occurs from mid-August through early September. FWC reminds residents to be cautious when having fun in and around water during the summer months. Please be mindful of the following safety tips recommended by the FWC: Generally, alligators less than four feet in length are not large enough to be dangerous unless handled. However, if you encounter any alligator that you believe poses a threat to people, pets or property, call the Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866FWCGATOR (866-392-4286). Please be aware, nuisance alligators are killed, not relocated. • Be aware of the possibility of alligators when you are in or near fresh or brackish water. Bites may occur when people do not pay close enough attention to their surroundings when working or recreating near water. 23 • Alligators are most active between dusk and dawn. Therefore, be cautious when near water during these times. • Dogs and cats are similar in size to the natural prey of alligators. • Keep pets 10' away from the water. Don’t allow pets to swim, exercise or drink in or near waters that may contain alligators. • Leave alligators alone. State law prohibits killing, harassing or possessing alligators. Handling even small alligators can result in injury. • Never feed alligators – it’s dangerous and illegal. When fed, alligators can overcome their natural wariness and learn to associate people with food. When this happens, some of these alligators have to be removed and killed. • Always remember to observe and photograph alligators only from a distance. Remember, they’re an important part of Florida’s natural history as well as an integral component of aquatic ecosystems. LEAVING FOR SUMMER? A Summer Checklist that contains tips on securing your home while you’re away and other reminders for travelers is posted online at https:// www.lakeashtoncdd.com and on the information wall in the Media Center. The newsletter and calendars are sent out via email blast each week. CERT UPDATE Congratulations to Ernie Harben, CERT member of the year! If you’d like to get involved, learn safety skills, or simply understand how CERT operates, we always welcome new faces. Together, we can make our community stronger and better prepared for whatever comes our way. Learn more by sitting in a meeting held on the third Tuesday of each month at the HFC Craft Room. Or visit our website at https:// sites.google.com/view/lake-ashtoncert/join-us or scan this QR code.
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