Barefoot By The Sea in Destin Florida LLC: Beautiful beaches of Destin, Florida!

Today our hearts are heavy with dread and the possibility of enormous loss to our area.

Okaloosa & Walton County officials and local agencies will need your help. As area residents wait in trepidation over the impact our shorelines will have from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, there are several ways to prepare for the uncertain future. Staying in touch with local developments and volunteering are ways to cope by being proactive.

This information from WaltonOutdoors.com:

The situation across the Gulf coast appears to be grave. Cooperating with local agencies and volunteering will be vital for restoration efforts in the coming weeks, months and perhaps years.

The county has been in contact and is working with State and federal agencies in preparing Walton County for the potential disastrous effects the oil could have and have a plan of action in place.

It’s safe to say that Walton County residents have a passion for the beautiful natural landscape of our area, and there are many who want to do all they can to help protect our beaches and wildlife.

As we anticipate the possibility of the approaching oil slick to our area, we are in need of volunteers. BP is looking for volunteers with boats to place oil booms to protect East Pass and Destin Harbor from the oil slick that could be coming our way. Call 425-745-8017. Please pass the word.

Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge is in need of the following donations in preparation for the oil slick: Plastic storage bins with lids (18-24 Gal)/Baby blankets/towels/Heating pads w/out auto shut-off (older models)/...Heat lamps/Plastic stock tanks (Tractor Supply) 100 gal or larger/...Portable swim pool (non-inflatable) not shallow baby pools/Cash donations for medical supplies. Please drop items at 406 Mountain Dr, Destin, FL 32541 between 9am-3pm.

Only hazmat trained individuals can assist in the local rescue of wildlife. Local hazmat training opportunities for volunteers will be posted as soon as available. United Way First Call for Help is coordinating the hazmat training for wildlife. Right now they are taking names and telephone numbers for future classes that will become available, call 850-595-5905.

Oiled or injured wildlife contact and volunteer info: To report oiled or injured wildlife in an area designated as oiled, call 800-557-1401. The Oiled Wildlife Hotline is not manned and will be checked for messages hourly.

Emerald Coast Wildlife Rescue in Destin is equipped and prepared to respond to oiled wildlife found on beaches that have not as yet been designated as “oiled.” If you find a suspected oiled animal please call them immediately. They will provide rescue and supportive care until the animal is ready for transport to one of the regional wash and rehab stations. Oiled wildlife will be suffering from shock, hypo or hyperthermia, and stress and is typically stabilized for 24 – 48 hours before washing begins. Calling them directly at 850-650-1880 will save valuable time in the treatment process. They are also seeking volunteers without hazmat training to help at the refuge.

To volunteer, email info@ecwildliferefuge.com with your contact info.