In an effort to help keep Floridians safe, WFIT and other Florida public radio stations have joined forces with the Florida Division of Emergency Management to form the new statewide Florida Public Radio Emergency Network (FPREN). The FPREN utilizes the state’s public radio outlets to share critical emergency information statewide through radio, various mobile media technologies, and battery-powered devices.
WFIT plays an integral role as the area’s Emergency Alert System station and provides crucial information during hurricanes and other emergencies. FPREN, the new emergency information network, will enhance our commitment to providing life-saving information about the weather and traffic during evacuation. Public service is the core of public radio’s mission and no cost, over the air radio remains the best and most reliable method for sharing emergency information. We are also continuing to improve our communications link capability with all of the local Emergency Operations Centers on the Space Coast. -Terri Wright, WFIT Station Manager
FPREN stations cover 99 percent of Florida. They are locally staffed and equipped to stay on the air during times of massive power outages enabling them to provide recovery information for as long as necessary.
Most public radio stations are located between 88 and 92 MHz on the FM dial. In the event of hurricane evacuations, signage on the interstates will indicate the exact frequency of the public radio station in each area.
FPREN's Storm Center, operated by the University of Florida, enables each public radio station to provide detailed 24 hour local weather forecasts and storm updates during severe events. Storm information can also be accessed on smart phones.
Thirteen public radio stations are part of the Florida Public Broadcasting System. FPBS is a non-profit association of public radio and public television stations in the state of Florida. FPBS stations are state partners in education, emergency management and public affairs.