ECUA Lifts Most Boil Water Notices; Some Escambia Addresses Still Affected

The Emerald Coast Utilities Authority has lifted boil water notices across most of its service territory in Escambia County, including Pensacola Beach, according to ECUA. However, residents at a number of specific mainland addresses remain under precautionary boil water advisories and should continue to boil water before drinking or using it for cooking and ice-making. ECUA did not immediately specify which addresses remain affected, but customers in those areas should check their billing statements or contact the utility directly for confirmation of their service status. The notices were initially issued following a water system issue affecting the utility's distribution network.

Pensacola Man Arrested After Attempted Armed Robbery, Deputy Assault

Escambia County Sheriff's Office deputies arrested a Pensacola man Wednesday following an attempted robbery at a local business and a subsequent confrontation with law enforcement.

According to the sheriff's office, the suspect allegedly entered a business armed with a firearm in an attempt to rob it. When deputies responded and attempted to take him into custody, the man allegedly assaulted multiple officers during the pursuit and arrest.

The suspect is now in custody facing robbery and assault charges related to the incident. The sheriff's office did not immediately release additional details about the business targeted or the extent of injuries sustained by the deputies involved.

Escambia County Warns Hurricane Victims to Check Contractors, Permits Before Repairs

PENSACOLA, Fla. — Escambia County officials are warning Hurricane Isaias victims that rushing into home repairs with an unlicensed contractor could create problems long after the storm cleanup is finished.

Escambia County Building Services and Permitting Director Tim Tolbert says homeowners should verify contractors are properly licensed and insured before allowing work to begin.

One warning sign can be an advertisement or work vehicle that claims a contractor is licensed without displaying a license number.

Tolbert said Florida-licensed contractors are required to include that number in their advertising.

Homeowners should also get a written contract detailing the work and its cost, seek multiple bids when possible and be cautious of demands for large upfront payments or cash.

Tolbert stressed another distinction that can easily become confused during hurricane recovery: Escambia County has waived storm-repair permit fees, not permit requirements.

Required permits must still be obtained.

Failing to do so can create problems later, including complications with insurance coverage or the sale of a home.

County officials say homeowners should also photograph damage before cleanup and retain contracts, receipts and other documentation related to hurricane repairs.

Suspected unlicensed contracting can be reported to Florida's Unlicensed Activity Hotline at 866-532-1440.

These six give the website a good mix rather than making the homepage entirely hurricane logistics: power/accountability, schools/accountability, water/service, relief/resources, community response and consumer protection.