MIAMI – As one of the most powerful Atlantic Ocean hurricanes ever recorded approaches the coastline, U.S. Customs and Border Protection personnel across Florida are making preparations and implementing emergency management procedures in advance of Hurricane Irma.
supplies in anticipation of Hurricane
Irma.
Acting CBP Commissioner Kevin McAleenan has designated Miami and Tampa Field Offices Director of Field Operations Diane J. Sabatino as the agency’s Lead Field Coordinator to manage the CBP Region IV Emergency Operation Center. CBP’s Emergency Operations Center serves as an integral part of the agency’s response and coordination efforts during hurricanes and emergencies.
“Our foremost concern is the lives and safety of all those in harm’s way and our selfless front-line federal officers and agents,” said LFC Diane J. Sabatino. “The men and women of U.S. Customs and Border Protection are committed to going above and beyond the call of duty as part of our mission to provide vital services to the trade community and traveling public. During these times CBP’s workforce comes together to ensure the safety of employees and safeguard facilities and assets.”
As Hurricane Irma approaches, CBP components are staffing the emergency operations center and staging personnel and equipment outside of the hurricane’s path ready to initiate response and recovery operations. Miami and Tampa Field Offices will update the trade community and traveling public on the status of the ports of entry in Florida with operational assets at the ready to resume any disruptions to international travel and trade facilitation to the impacted areas as soon as practical.
During an emergency, CBP’s emergency response is conducted in accordance with the Department of Homeland Security’s National Response Framework.
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