Wildwood officials are urging residents to take safety precautions and prepare adequately for impending Hurricane Ian.

The Wildwood City Commission is expected to approve a local declaration of emergency at its meeting this evening, following one approved this morning by the Sumter County Board of County Commissioners and an executive order issued by Gov. Ron DeSantis yesterday that expanded a state of emergency to all Florida counties.

“We are taking every possible step to protect the residents of Wildwood,” said Jason McHugh, city manager. “I am in constant contact with Sumter County officials, and we are coordinating closely as the storm approaches.”

The county serves as the lead for local emergency management programs and services, per executed interlocal agency agreements. It operates both the Sumter County Emergency Operations Center and community shelters located throughout the county.

Residents with special needs who require evacuation assistance should call 352-689-4400 if they have not done so already.

Sumter County residents in need of sandbags to restrict water from entering houses via doorways, garages, and entryways can obtain up to 10 empty sandbags, fill them, and load them into their vehicles between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. at the Lake Panasoffkee Regional Recreation Park at 1589 CR 459 in Lake Panasoffkee. Residents will need to provide proof of residence within Sumter County and should bring a shovel if possible.

For more information, visit www.sumterprepares.com or call 352-689-4400.