First responders keep our community safe
There are many opportunities for the community to stay safe, as well as educate themselves on how to do so in North Fort Myers.
Lee County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Autumn King said there are 54 sworn officers assigned to the North Fort Myers precinct. The precinct is at 121 Pondella Road.
There are many public education programs provided by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office.
“Citizens Academy is an amazing public course where members of the community are invited into the Sheriff’s Office and provided an in-depth look at all our agency has to offer,” she said. “This includes tours through our agency buildings, hands-on training simulation, and presentations from all of our specialty units.”
There are three fire stations in North Fort Myers – TrailDairy Circle, Barret Road and Slater Road – with a total of 61 firefighters/EMS employed.
There are numerous programs the fire department provides to help the community, according to North Fort Myers Fire Control District Public Education Officer Christi Fulton. The programs run the gamut from smoke alarm assist, fire extinguisher training, helmet fitter, AED education and CPR training, to lift assist.
Fulton said the Smoke Alarm Assist program is a shared program with American Cross and helps residents change batteries, advise on hardwired alarms, and install up to three alarms.
Another program is through Community Emergency Response Team, which is a shared program with FEMA.
“A community/resident works with the fire department for preparation efforts for all disasters,” she said.
The fire department also offers Files for Life, a resource they give out by drop in or through their safety seminar to identify a residents’ emergency information.
Fulton said they also offer juvenile fire setter intervention, which is a multiple week course for active juvenile fire setters.
The fire department also wants to make sure animals are safe through their pet locater decal sticker, which communicates to first responders that an animal could be present in a home.
She said they also offer sharps, located at all three stations to provide disposal containers and disposal of containers containing used needles and syringes
The fire department also involves themselves in the community through blood pressure checks at any of the three stations, the NFMFD Christmas Toy Drive, public safety seminars, fire station and apparatus tours and parade participation.
One of the areas in which public safety is of importance is preparing for storms.
“The safety of our residents is a top priority. Help us help you by preparing for any weather event to keep from being in any harmful situation,” King said. “We are here to keep you safe and will always provide quick and accurate information in the event of a hurricane, so stay informed and have a plan.”
There are also steps winter residents can take once they return to their homes – check their home – inspect for any damage, test smoke detectors, alarms and secure the property.
Fulton said other ways to stay safe throughout the year are by trimming trees, inspecting roofs and testing generators, as well as knowing neighbors, especially those with special needs. She said updating contacts, adjusting plans and insurance checkups are also important. NFMNL
To reach MEGHAN BRADBURY, please email news@breezenewspapers.com