Hurricane Idalia: Sandbags, Updates and Information

This page will continue to be updated as more information becomes available. For up-to-the-minute information, please consult the National Hurricane Center and Volusia County Emergency Management. AUGUST 30 12 PM UPDATE: Volusia County Hurricane Idalia Update Storm Impacts Were Minimal Volusia County emerged largely unscathed from the impacts of Hurricane Idalia. Volusia County, municipalities, and agencies took fast and effective steps to ensure public safety and inform the … Continue reading Hurricane Idalia: Sandbags, Updates and Information

SHERIFF CHITWOOD ISSUES REMINDERS FOR A SAFE START TO THE NEW SCHOOL YEAR

With the first day of school coming up next Monday (Aug. 14), the Volusia Sheriff’s Office and law enforcement agencies across Volusia County are gearing up for a safe start to the school year and asking the public to do the same. With students back on the roads, sidewalks and crosswalks, safe driving and situational awareness will be a priority. Deputies will be conducting extra … Continue reading SHERIFF CHITWOOD ISSUES REMINDERS FOR A SAFE START TO THE NEW SCHOOL YEAR

dog and little girl at beach

Pet Swimming Safety

Pets and Water Safety Q: “My dog, Grady James, loves coming to the beach with us every weekend. Sometimes he has diarrhea and acts sick afterward. I heard that the water can be bad for dogs. Is this something I should be concerned with?” Caitie – dog parent, NSB A: We are incredibly lucky to live in an area that allows us to enjoy the … Continue reading Pet Swimming Safety

corgi running by pool

Pool Safety for Your Pet

Pet Safety Around the Water Last month we had a great question regarding safety for dogs at the beach. As a follow up this month we will delve deeper into overall swimming and pool safety for our canine friends. Being aware of potential dangers and setting up for a fun experience will help make outdoor water activities an enjoyable time for all involved. Can Your … Continue reading Pool Safety for Your Pet

Blue-Green Algae Alert Issued For Several West Volusia Lakes

The Florida Department of Health in Volusia County has issued a Health Alert for the presence of harmful blue-green algal toxins in Pioneer and Louise Lakes in Deltona and Bonita Lake in DeBary. This is in response to a water sample taken on April 5. The public should exercise caution in and around these lakes. Blue-green algae are a type of bacteria that is common … Continue reading Blue-Green Algae Alert Issued For Several West Volusia Lakes

New Smyrna Beach receiving $1 million to help clear flood-prone canals

The City of New Smyrna Beach will receive $1 million in state funding to help clean up canals surrounding Pine Island and Aqua Golf, two centrally located mainland communities that saw some homes flooded with 4 feet of storm surge during Hurricane Ian last September. First dug in the 1950s, the canals have experienced considerable vegetation and sediment buildup over the years with no documented … Continue reading New Smyrna Beach receiving $1 million to help clear flood-prone canals

GOVERNOR SIGNS HB 1595, TRANSITIONING LAW ENFORCEMENT AUTHORITY ON VOLUSIA BEACHES TO VSO

Today, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed HB 1595 (Law Enforcement Operations), which requires the Sheriff’s Office to assume exclusive law enforcement authority on Volusia beaches. Deputies and Beach Safety officers have already been working together closely in anticipation of the law taking effect. With the governor’s signature today, the full transition becomes official. Sheriff Mike Chitwood commended Volusia County Manager George Recktenwald, his administration and … Continue reading GOVERNOR SIGNS HB 1595, TRANSITIONING LAW ENFORCEMENT AUTHORITY ON VOLUSIA BEACHES TO VSO

woman sitting at dinner table with her dog on her lap

Holidays and Pets: What’s Safe for Animals to Eat During Holiday Meals

Pets are often included in our holiday celebrations and treated as members of the family. It is important to remember however that they have their own dietary needs that differ from ours. Around Thanksgiving, Christmas and other holidays, keep in mind what is safe for your pets to have and what to avoid. What Foods Pets/Dogs CAN’T EAT: What Foods Pets/Dogs CAN Enjoy: Any allowed … Continue reading Holidays and Pets: What’s Safe for Animals to Eat During Holiday Meals

NSB Finalizes Parks Master Plan

The city of New Smyrna Beach (NSB) is a coastal community of Volusia County. Locals live, work and play all while soaking up NSB’s laid back lifestyle. Visitors come to enjoy fun outdoor experiences like strolling on miles of seaside boardwalk and relaxing on beautiful white-sand beaches. The city’s coastal neighborhoods are located along North America’s most diverse estuary, the Indian River Lagoon and the … Continue reading NSB Finalizes Parks Master Plan

Halloween Magic at Home

Starting this month, family holidays are in full swing. Like everything else this year, we have to make some changes, especially when it comes to the health and safety of our families.  Local Halloween traditions are pretty basic. Parade and costume contest on Canal Street, and then trick-or-treating with family and friends. This year, that may not be possible. What do we do to still … Continue reading Halloween Magic at Home