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Mold Remediation in Fort Myers, FL

Mold Remediation in Fort Myers is essential for maintaining a healthy living environment. Mold can develop quickly in damp areas, posing serious health risks to you and your family. Whether it's due to a leaky roof, flooding, or high humidity, addressing mold issues promptly is crucial to prevent further damage to your property and ensure the safety of your loved ones.

At Disaster Response, we understand the urgency of mold problems. Our team of experts is equipped with the latest technology and techniques to identify and eliminate mold effectively. We conduct thorough inspections to assess the extent of the mold growth and develop a tailored remediation plan that addresses your specific needs. Our goal is to restore your home to a safe and healthy condition as quickly as possible.

Mold can not only damage your property but also lead to various health issues, including respiratory problems and allergies. That's why our mold remediation services in Fort Myers focus on not just removing the visible mold but also addressing the underlying moisture issues that allow mold to thrive. We take a comprehensive approach to ensure that your home is not only mold-free but also protected against future infestations.

Choosing Disaster Response means you're opting for professionalism and expertise in mold remediation. Our dedicated team is committed to providing exceptional service, ensuring that your home is safe and comfortable. Don't let mold compromise your health and property—contact us today for a thorough assessment and effective remediation solutions tailored to your needs.

Disaster Response, The Authority on Fort Myers Mold Remediation

Finding a reliable mold remediation service in Fort Myers, FL, can be overwhelming, but with Disaster Response, the choice becomes clear. With years of experience in the industry, we specialize in effectively eliminating mold and restoring your home or business to a safe environment. Our dedicated team understands the health risks associated with mold exposure and is committed to providing thorough and efficient remediation services.

Disaster Response

At Disaster Response, we utilize advanced techniques and state-of-the-art equipment to identify and remove mold from your property. Our experts conduct comprehensive inspections to assess the extent of the mold problem, ensuring that no hidden spores are left behind. We prioritize your safety and well-being, employing environmentally friendly products that are safe for both your family and the planet.

Our commitment to excellence extends beyond just mold removal. We also focus on preventing future mold growth by addressing the underlying causes, such as moisture issues and inadequate ventilation. Our team provides valuable advice on maintaining a mold-free environment, empowering you to take proactive steps in safeguarding your property.

Like the iconic landmarks in Fort Myers, FL, we stand as a beacon of hope for those facing mold challenges. Our expertise and dedication to customer satisfaction set us apart in the mold remediation industry.

As true specialists in Fort Myers mold remediation, we focus exclusively on the following services

  • Comprehensive Mold Inspections
  • Mold Removal and Cleanup
  • Air Quality Testing
  • Moisture Control Solutions
  • Preventative Treatments
  • Structural Drying and Dehumidification
  • Post-Remediation Verification
  • Emergency Response Services
  • Residential and Commercial Services
  • Consultation and Education on Mold Prevention

At Disaster Response, we strive to be THE authority on mold remediation in Fort Myers. We understand the urgency of addressing mold issues and are here to provide swift, effective solutions. When you choose our services, you can trust that we will restore your space to a safe and healthy condition, allowing you to breathe easy once again.

Fort Myers mold

Disaster Response: The Leading Authority on Mold Remediation in Fort Myers

Finding a reliable mold remediation service in Fort Myers can be overwhelming, but with Disaster Response, the choice is clear. With years of experience in the industry, we specialize in effectively identifying and eliminating mold issues, ensuring a safe and healthy environment for our clients. Our dedicated team understands the complexities of mold growth and is committed to providing top-notch service tailored to your specific needs.

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What Our Clients Are Saying

utilize advanced techniques

At Disaster Response, we utilize advanced techniques and state-of-the-art equipment to assess and remediate mold infestations. Our experts are trained to handle various types of mold, from common household varieties to more hazardous species, ensuring that your property is thoroughly treated. We prioritize safety and efficiency, working diligently to restore your space to its original condition while minimizing disruption to your daily life.

Our comprehensive approach includes not only the removal of mold but also addressing the underlying causes of moisture that contribute to its growth. We believe in educating our clients about mold prevention and maintenance, empowering them to take proactive steps in safeguarding their homes or businesses. With our commitment to excellence, you can trust that your mold remediation project is in capable hands.

As a leading provider of mold remediation services in Fort Myers, we pride ourselves on our customer-centric approach. We understand that dealing with mold can be stressful, which is why we strive to make the process as seamless as possible. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring that you feel supported and informed throughout the entire remediation process.

  • Comprehensive Mold Inspections
  • Mold Removal and Cleanup
  • Air Quality Testing
  • Moisture Control Solutions
  • Preventative Treatments
  • Structural Drying and Dehumidification
  • Post-Remediation Verification
  • Emergency Response Services
  • Residential and Commercial Services
  • Consultation and Education on Mold Prevention

At Disaster Response, we are dedicated to being the leading authority on mold remediation in Fort Myers. Our expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction set us apart in the industry. When you choose us, you can rest assured that we will restore your property to a safe and healthy state, allowing you to breathe easy once again.

Mold Testing and Remediation Overview: Following IICRC S520 Standards

The IICRC S520 standard provides a clear guide for safely managing mold issues in homes and buildings. Its main goals are to protect people, ensure thorough cleanup, and prevent future mold problems.

1. Assessment and Inspection

Initial Assessment:

  • Trained professionals will conduct a detailed inspection of the affected area. This includes visual checks and using tools like moisture meters and infrared cameras to find hidden mold or moisture.
  • Understanding moisture sources is crucial, as mold often arises from water issues or high humidity.

Mold Sampling:

  • Although not always needed, testing (both air and surface samples) can help identify the type and amount of mold present.
  • Sampling is useful when mold is suspected but not visible, such as when there are odors or health concerns.
  • If sampling is done, it must follow proper protocols, with analysis performed by accredited labs.

2. Containment Protocols

Containment Procedures:

  • To stop mold spores from spreading during cleanup, barriers (like plastic sheeting and negative air pressure) are used.
  • The extent of containment varies; small areas might require basic barriers, while larger or heavily contaminated spaces need more extensive containment.
  • Workers must enter and exit through decontamination chambers to avoid spreading mold.

3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

  • Workers should wear appropriate PPE, including gloves, N95 masks, full-body suits, and eye protection.
  • The type of PPE needed depends on how severe the contamination is; more protective gear may be required for heavily affected areas.

4. Remediation Process

Source Control:

  • Addressing the root cause of moisture is essential. This may involve fixing leaks, improving ventilation, or managing humidity.

Cleaning and Removal of Mold:

  • Mold cannot just be treated with chemicals; it must be physically removed.
  • Non-porous materials (like metals and glass) can often be cleaned with HEPA vacuums or damp cloths.
  • Severely affected porous materials (like drywall and carpets) should be removed and disposed of according to local regulations.
  • HEPA air filtration systems should be used to capture airborne mold spores during cleanup.

Cleaning Techniques:

  • Common methods include HEPA vacuuming and scrubbing surfaces where mold is present.
  • Antimicrobial agents may be used, but the focus is on physical removal.

5. Post-Remediation Evaluation

Final Inspection:

  • After cleanup, a visual inspection ensures no visible mold remains.
  • Air and surface tests may be conducted to confirm that mold levels are back to normal.
  • It's crucial to check that the environment is dry to prevent mold from returning.

Documentation and Reporting:

  • Detailed records of the remediation process, including testing results and cleanup procedures, should be maintained.
  • This documentation is important for compliance and may be needed for insurance or legal matters.

6. Ongoing Prevention

  • Educating building occupants about moisture control is vital. This includes maintaining HVAC systems, managing humidity, and promptly addressing leaks.

By adhering to the IICRC S520 standard, mold remediation professionals take a systematic and health-focused approach, ensuring that indoor spaces are restored to safe, mold-free conditions.

Do You Really Need, Need a Mold Remediation Expert in Fort Myers?

While it may be tempting to tackle mold issues on your own, hiring a professional mold remediation service can ensure a thorough and effective solution. Mold can pose serious health risks and structural damage to your home, making it crucial to address the problem with expertise. Disaster Response specializes in mold remediation, providing the knowledge and tools necessary to restore your environment safely and efficiently.

Mold Remediation Process

Understanding the Mold Remediation Process

Mold remediation involves a systematic approach to identify, contain, and eliminate mold growth. Professionals like those at Disaster Response utilize advanced techniques and equipment to assess the extent of the mold infestation. This process includes air quality testing, surface sampling, and moisture control measures to prevent future growth. By understanding the specific conditions that led to mold development, experts can implement effective solutions tailored to your situation.

Health Risks Associated

Health Risks Associated with Mold Exposure

Mold can lead to a variety of health issues, particularly for individuals with respiratory conditions, allergies, or weakened immune systems. Symptoms may include coughing, sneezing, skin irritation, and even more severe reactions in sensitive individuals. Engaging a mold remediation expert ensures that the mold is not only removed but that the air quality in your home is restored to a safe level, protecting the health of your family.

Preventing Future Mold Growth

Preventing Future Mold Growth

After remediation, it's essential to take proactive steps to prevent mold from returning. Disaster Response provides guidance on moisture control, ventilation improvements, and regular inspections to maintain a mold-free environment. By addressing the underlying causes of mold growth, such as leaks or high humidity, you can significantly reduce the risk of future infestations.

Professional Equipment Techniques

The Importance of Professional Equipment and Techniques

Attempting to remove mold without the proper equipment can lead to incomplete removal and potential health hazards. Professionals use specialized tools such as HEPA vacuums, air scrubbers, and moisture meters to ensure thorough remediation. Disaster Response's trained technicians are equipped to handle even the most challenging mold situations, ensuring that your home is restored to a safe and healthy state.

Reach Out to a Mold Remediation Specialist in Fort Myers, FL, for These Mold-Related Issues

Mold growth can occur in various environments, particularly in areas with high humidity or water damage. This fungal growth can lead to significant health risks, property damage, and unpleasant odors. Recent studies have shown an increase in mold-related issues in Fort Myers, with many homeowners facing challenges in managing and eliminating mold effectively. If you find yourself dealing with any of the following mold situations, it's crucial to contact a mold remediation expert promptly:

Visible Mold Growth

If you notice mold on walls, ceilings, or other surfaces, it's a clear sign that professional intervention is needed. Mold can spread quickly and may indicate underlying moisture problems.

Musty Odors

A persistent musty smell in your home can be a strong indicator of hidden mold. This odor often suggests that mold is present, even if it's not immediately visible.

Water Damage

Following a leak, flood, or any water intrusion, the risk of mold growth increases significantly. It's essential to address any water damage promptly to prevent mold from taking hold.

Health Symptoms

If you or your family members are experiencing unexplained respiratory issues, allergies, or skin irritations, mold exposure could be the culprit. Seeking professional help can ensure a safe living environment.

Condensation Issues

Excessive condensation on windows, walls, or pipes can create a breeding ground for mold. Addressing these issues with a mold remediation service can help prevent future growth.

Previous Mold Problems

If you've dealt with mold in the past, it's vital to monitor the area for any signs of recurrence. A professional can assess the situation and implement preventive measures.

Regardless of the mold issue you're facing, it's important to understand that Fort Myers residents should act quickly to mitigate the risks associated with mold exposure. Mold can not only damage your property but also pose serious health risks to you and your family. Engaging a qualified mold remediation specialist like Disaster Response can provide the expertise needed to effectively eliminate mold and restore your home to a safe condition.

Essential Steps to Take After Discovering Mold in Your Home in Fort Myers

Finding mold in your home can be alarming and overwhelming. Mold can grow quickly and pose health risks, so it's crucial to act promptly. Here are the steps you should follow if you discover mold in your Fort Myers residence:

  • Identify the source of moisture that is causing the mold growth.
  • Ensure the affected area is well-ventilated to minimize exposure.
  • Avoid touching or disturbing the mold, as this can release spores into the air.
  • Document the extent of the mold growth with photographs for your records.
  • Contact a professional mold remediation service to assess the situation.
  • Follow any safety recommendations provided by the remediation experts.
  • Keep children and pets away from the affected area until it has been treated.
  • Review your home's ventilation and humidity levels to prevent future mold growth.

If you find mold in your home, it's essential to address it quickly to protect your health and property. Mold can lead to various health issues, including respiratory problems and allergic reactions. At Disaster Response, we specialize in mold remediation and are dedicated to restoring your home to a safe and healthy environment.

Contact Your Local Mold Remediation Experts in Fort Myers, FL, for a Free Consultation

At Disaster Response, we understand the stress and uncertainty that comes with mold issues. Our team is committed to providing you with the highest level of service and support during this challenging time. We approach every situation with professionalism, care, and urgency.

Our mold remediation specialists will work diligently to identify the source of the mold, safely remove it, and implement measures to prevent its return. When your home's safety and your family's well-being are at stake, don't settle for anything less than the best—choose Disaster Response today.

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Latest News in Fort Myers, FL

These Florida Towns Are Open After Hurricane Milton And Need Your Business

Florida is no stranger to natural disasters. Hurricanes are a yearly (often multiple times per year) occurrence for the state’s many coastal communities. On October 9, the most recent in a string of storms struck Florida. Hurricane Milton made landfall along Florida’s west coast as a category 3 storm, coming just weeks after ...

Florida is no stranger to natural disasters. Hurricanes are a yearly (often multiple times per year) occurrence for the state’s many coastal communities. On October 9, the most recent in a string of storms struck Florida. Hurricane Milton made landfall along Florida’s west coast as a category 3 storm, coming just weeks after Hurricane Helene hit Florida’s Big Bend on September 26. Milton, as well as the nearly four dozen tornadoes it spawned, tore a path of destruction through Florida starting in Siesta Key and traveling through the central part of the state.

Unfortunately, preparing for and bouncing back from storms is a way of life in the Sunshine State. However, no amount of rain or high winds has ever kept the state down for long—nor have they deterred the millions of tourists who visit the state each year. “Florida is a resilient state, and we are working hard to rebuild and rejuvenate the areas affected by the recent storms so that tourism can bounce back even stronger,” VISIT FLORIDA president and CEO Dana Young told us. “The best thing you can do now to help is book a trip! Tourism plays a critically essential role in revitalizing local economies and small businesses.”

Now that the state has had some time to recover, several cities that were affected by the hurricane have reopened to visitors. Overall, Young says most impacted areas are on track to make a full recovery within the next 6-8 weeks. But if you’re looking to travel now, here are six places that are open and ready to welcome you.

If you do decide to travel, be sure to double check any reservations or plans before leaving, as this information is changing frequently.

Fort Myers

Known as the gateway to Southwest Florida, Fort Myers is an all-in-one vacation destination that effortlessly blends a vibrant metropolitan with tranquil beaches, cultural attractions, and great dining. After being hit hard by Hurricane Ian in 2022, Fort Myers was largely spared by Hurricane Milton and is fully open to visitors.

Things to do: Bike along the canals in Cape Coral, then spend an afternoon in the sun at Fort Myers Beach. Take time to explore the lively downtown River District, then sit down for a seafood dinner at Izzy’s Fish & Oyster.

Where to stay: The Banyan Hotel, The Hibiscus House B&B

explore fort myers

Orlando

Though Walt Disney World and Universal Studios closed their theme parks on October 9 and 10, business back up and running as usual by that Friday, October 11. The hometown of the “Happiest Place on Earth” was spared most major long-term damage and has kept up its steady stream of visitors despite the setback.

Things to do: If you aren’t in town to hit the parks, there’s still plenty to do. See live music, a theater performance, or ballet at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. Explore Orlando’s wild side by checking out nearby freshwater springs like the ones at Wekiwa Springs State Park or taking an airboat tour with Spirit of the Swamp.

Where to stay: Ette Hotel, Reunion Resort & Golf Club, JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa

explore orlando

Tampa

As the state’s third most populous city after Jacksonville and Miami, Tampa is a hub for everything from arts and culture to family-friendly attractions. Originally slated to see much more damage at the hands of Milton, the storm took a turn and spared most of the city’s major attractions from harm. The international airport is running its full docket of flights making it as easy as ever to plan a trip.

Things to do: Spend your day by the water at Sparkman Wharf, along the Tampa Riverwalk, and in the Channel District. Take the whole family to the Florida Aquarium and Busch Gardens. Explore Ybor City to try authentic Cuban food at the historic Columbia Restaurant and visit America’s oldest family-owned cigar maker at J.C. Newman Cigar Co.

Where to stay: Hotel Haya, Tampa Edition

Bradenton

Bradenton is situated alongside the Manatee River, just south of Tampa. Downtown’s hotels, restaurants, attractions, and businesses are largely open and ready for visitors. The area is also known for its natural areas, state parks, and preserves. All of Manatee County’s nature preserves, save Leffis Key and Anna Maria Island are open, as is Manatee Public Beach. Note: Nearby Anna M aria Island is in the process of reopening with Manatee Public Beach and Coquina Beach expected to open during the first week of November.

Things to do: Learn about marine life and much more at the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature. Shop and stroll the Village of the Arts, where small businesses and artists make a vibrant merchant community.

Where to stay: Compass Hotel Anna Maria Sound by Margaritaville, Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa

St. Petersburg/Clearwater

Currently, nearly 80% of the St. Petersburg’s and Clearwater’s hotels are open, including popular flagship properties in Clearwater Beach. A few icons, like the Don Cesar Hotel, remain closed. Most attractions are open, along with restaurants, cafes and bars throughout the county serving guests as normal. While much of these destinations have been able to re-open quickly, some beach communities saw historic levels of storm surge during Hurricane Helene, and therefore need a little bit more time to fully recover. However, with 35 miles of beautiful Gulf Coast beachfront, there’s plenty of pristine beach ready for visitors to enjoy.

Things to do: Have a multisensory art experience at the Dali Museum, or marvel at the incredible sea life at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium which was closed for three weeks following the storm, but is now reopen. Explore the many facets of the 26-acre St. Pete Pier that includes a museum of history, multiple restaurants, splash pad, fishing deck, playground, marketplace, public art, and more. Spend a day lounging at Clearwater Beach.

Where to stay: Hollander Hotel, The Vinoy

explore st. petersburg

Sarasota

More than half of our Sarasota’s hotels are fully operational, and major attractions like The Ringling Museum, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, and various performing arts venues are also open to visitors. While some businesses are still undergoing restoration, the vast majority of the region is ready to welcome visitors, and full recovery is expected within the next few months.

Things to do: Spend a day at the beach. Several area beach access points including those at Siesta Beach, Nokomis Beach, North and South Brohard, and Maxine Barritt Park on Venice Island are back up and running with lifeguards and all normal amenities. Have a waterfront meal at places like Daiquiri Deck, Marina Jack, and New Pass Grill & Bait Shop.

Where to stay: Resort at Longboat Key Club, Art Ovation Hotel

Hurricane Milton devastated Fort Myers, Lee County in Florida. How you can donate to help

Hurricane Milton devastated Florida and many are wondering how they can donate to hurricane relief efforts.Milton barrelled across Florida after ...

Hurricane Milton devastated Florida and many are wondering how they can donate to hurricane relief efforts.

Milton barrelled across Florida after landfall near Siesta Key, a barrier island in Sarasota County, on Wednesday, Oct. 9, as a Category 3 hurricane with 120-mph winds, leaving a trail of death and destruction from tornadoes, storm surge, wind and flooding rains.

At least 24 deaths have been attributed to the storm, according to USA TODAY Network reports.

The Fort Myers area and Lee County, still reeling from Hurricane Helene's impact two weeks earlier, were among the areas walloped by Hurricane Milton.

Here's how you can donate to help those affected by Hurricane Milton:

Verified GoFundMe fundraisers

Donations can be made to these verified GoFundMe fundraisers:

Donations for Hurricane Milton relief

Donations can be made to these organizations:

Photos of Hurricane Milton damage across Fort Myers, Lee County

See Hurricane Milton destruction on Matlacha

Hurricane Milton damage on Captiva

Sanibel Island damage from Hurricane Milton

Hurricane Milton coverage

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See how the Fort Myers area fared during Hurricane Milton in new helicopter video

Video from the Lee County Sheriff's Office shows sand-swept and partially flooded communities days after the hurricane made landfall.More VideosFORT MYERS BEACH, Fla. — The Tampa Bay region narrowly avoided catastrophic damage when Hurricane Milton moved south of its projected landfall late on Oct. 9.The hurricane's transition 70 miles south of Tampa, however, meant the community of ...

Video from the Lee County Sheriff's Office shows sand-swept and partially flooded communities days after the hurricane made landfall.

More Videos

FORT MYERS BEACH, Fla. — The Tampa Bay region narrowly avoided catastrophic damage when Hurricane Milton moved south of its projected landfall late on Oct. 9.

The hurricane's transition 70 miles south of Tampa, however, meant the community of Siesta Key in Sarasota County would face the hurricane's eye wall.

Even further south, in the Fort Myers area, Southwest Florida was caught in the hurricane's dirty side, which is the area of the storm that usually experiences the most severe storm surge, extreme wind, and heavier rain bands that can cause flooding and tornadoes.

New helicopter video from the Lee County Sheriff's Office showcased the devastation officials are still working to clean up nearly a week after Milton's landfall.

Fort Myers Beach officially reopened to the public Saturday morning, but advised visitors against entering the water due to safety concerns that remain throughout the area, according to local CBS affiliate WINK.

Water samples are reportedly being tested by the Lee County Department of Health. The department plans to announce when it is safe for swimming once the quality meets state guidelines. Concerns remain about bacteria and potential hazards like debris still in the water.

Businesses throughout Fort Myers Beach are also working to reopen their doors after the storm, with many comparing the devastation to the previous Hurricane Ian.

“Ian is nothing compared to this,” a Sunset Point Marina and Resort employee told WINK.

“We had 14 boats at this marina, none of them are really salvageable at this point. Some of them ended up here tore down. The whole entire first floor is fully damaged. We had a full boat rental business over here that is fully broken. It’s going to take us a while to build back, and we’ll definitely be closed for a little bit.”

Where to vote, what ID to bring Nov. 5 to cast ballots in Lee County, Florida Election 2024

(This story has been updated to correct the phone number of the Lee elections office).Early voting ended Saturday, Nov. 2, but there are still two ways to vote today, Nov. 5 Election Day: Drop off your vote-by-mail ballot at a Lee County Supervisor of Elections office or vote-in-person at your assi...

(This story has been updated to correct the phone number of the Lee elections office).

Early voting ended Saturday, Nov. 2, but there are still two ways to vote today, Nov. 5 Election Day: Drop off your vote-by-mail ballot at a Lee County Supervisor of Elections office or vote-in-person at your assigned precinct.

➤Still deciding on local races? Check here: The ultimate Lee County, Fort Myers, Cape Coral voting guide.

➤Come back tonight: 2024 Florida election results: President, amendments, congress, state legislature

➤Live Lee County Election 2024 updates al day today and tonight.

What ID to bring to vote on Election Day 2024

Florida Statute 101.043 requires voters to bring to present one of the following current (not expired) and valid forms of picture IDs before voting:

If your picture identification does not contain your signature, an additional identification with your signature is required:

You can still drop off your vote-by-mail ballot until 7 p.m. today

Voters can hand deliver their ballots from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Election Day to any Supervisor of Elections office. They are at:

To track your vote-by-mail ballot: https://www.lee.vote/Voter-Resources/Check-My-Voter-Info

Voters cannot return their vote-by-mail ballot to their polling place on Election Day; however, they may surrender their ballot and vote in person at their precinct.

Can you vote today in Lee County, Florida if you are not registered?

It's too late to register to vote in today's election. Only voters who registered by Oct. 7, 2024 are eligible. Check your voter registration status here: https://registration.elections.myflorida.com/CheckVoterStatus

Fort Myers Beach moving forward after Hurricane Milton

Two days after Milton made landfall, those in Fort Myers Beach are still trying to move forward. On Friday, cars were able to pass through Fort Myers Beach to assess the damage and destruction.“I was worried all the time that it was going to be another Ian.”Carol Donoghue is a landlord and a resident of Fort Myers Beach. She spent Friday cleaning up, and as she does so, she says she’s just grateful it’s not as bad as it could have been. “I was one of the luckier ones; we only had 26 inches.”...

Two days after Milton made landfall, those in Fort Myers Beach are still trying to move forward. On Friday, cars were able to pass through Fort Myers Beach to assess the damage and destruction.

“I was worried all the time that it was going to be another Ian.”

Carol Donoghue is a landlord and a resident of Fort Myers Beach. She spent Friday cleaning up, and as she does so, she says she’s just grateful it’s not as bad as it could have been. “I was one of the luckier ones; we only had 26 inches.”

As she shows us her property, she shares, “So we lost all the appliances, washers, dryers, refrigerators, and all that, and of course the drywall has to be removed.”

But the beach has an eerie feel. Houses on stilts can be seen flattened. Damage is almost everywhere you look, but you don’t know if it came from Ian, Helene, or Milton.

"It is hard. We still had debris on the street. This was one of the harder things from the storm. (It) was because, from Helene, we had all our debris on the street ready for the grapplers, and they didn’t have time to grab it. So, it’s spread all over the neighborhood again,” explains Carol.

On Friday, most of the businesses on the island were closed. Crews were seen removing sand from major roadways.

Friday afternoon, 600 hot meals from World Central Kitchen were brought in, as food trucks still aren’t allowed on the island.

"We have a lot of hungry people without power, our power is being slowly restored,” shares Melody King.

King is a resident of the beach and the owner of the Facebook Page, ‘I love Fort Myers Beach, Florida.”

She further says, “But our residents are without simple needs like ice and food, and fuel.”

It’s why these neighbors are helping neighbors, in this time of need. "I hope that that spirit continues, and I know it will,” says Carol with a soft smile.

“And we are going to clean up and get back to normal,” she says.

Both Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel Island have opened back up to residents and any contractors or workers looking to help with cleanup and debris.

Officials ask that those who do not need to be there, please stay off the islands as they work to get things back in order.

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This website publishes news articles that contain copyrighted material whose use has not been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. The non-commercial use of these news articles for the purposes of local news reporting constitutes "Fair Use" of the copyrighted materials as provided for in Section 107 of the US Copyright Law.
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