    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1995, Book II)]
    [August 3, 1995]
    [Page 1197]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    [[Page 1197]]

    Statement on Hurricane Erin
    August 3, 1995

        For several days now, we have been watching and waiting as Hurricane
    Erin approached the Florida coast, not knowing what to expect but
    preparing for the worst. We thank God that this storm did not pack the
    catastrophic punch that others have in the past. However, it did cause
    considerable damage.
        Our hearts and prayers go out to all who have been impacted by the
    hurricane. We pray for a quick recovery. To help that process get
    underway, I have tonight signed an emergency declaration for the State
    of Florida and have asked James Lee Witt, the Director of the Federal
    Emergency Management Agency, to coordinate all efforts to save lives and
    protect the health, safety, and property of those affected.
        There are already FEMA trucks loaded with plastic sheeting,
    chainsaws, generators, and other tools headed for the impacted area.
    Director Witt will go to Florida first thing in the morning, inspect the
    damage, and report back to me.
        I have spoken with Governor Chiles and asked him to convey to the
    people of Florida our commitment to this recovery effort. I am proud of
    the work Governor Chiles and all of the State and local emergency
    workers did in preparing for this storm. As a former Governor, I know
    how important emergency preparedness is in saving lives and protecting
    property. I applaud their efforts and salute the courage and strength of
    all Floridians dealing with the damage caused by the hurricane.