CRAWFORDVILLE, FL (WTXL) -- Wakulla County earns one of the highest marks in the country for its emergency response.
The county's emergency management department has been ranked second in the nation for flood warning and response.
Emergency Management director Scott Nelson says this could mean homeowners and business owners could save money when buying flood insurance.
The National Flood Insurance Program under FEMA has what's called a "Community Rating System."
It takes a look at how communities can reduce the risk of flooding through communication and planning.
In the flood warning and response portion, Wakulla earned 362 out of 365 possible points, earning the second highest score in the country.
Nelson says the honor comes just before hurricane season, when flooding usually becomes a concern.
"We've had Bonnie," Nelson said. "In January, we had our first storm of the year, so things are certainly heating up, and the season starts tomorrow (Wednesday). We certainly ask that our citizens remain prepared, regardless of how robust we are. It all relies on them being robust as well."
Nelson says the county's communication to residents has been a key component in their ranking.
More than 1,200 communities in all 50 states are ranked in the Community Rating System.
Next year, that system will evaluate the entire Emergency Management program.
