On April 22, 2026, fifty-two Herons Glen residents attended a presentation sponsored by the SSEP and CERT committees. The main speakers were Meteorologist Jim Dickey from Gulf Coast News, Christi Fulton NFMFD Public Education Officer and Staff Sergeant Mark Sherman, Herons Glen Liaison from the Lee County Sheriff’s Office.
Meteorologist Dickey predicted a below average season is expected in the Atlantic because of a strong El Niño forecast to develop in the Pacific by the summer. The impacts of hurricanes bring damaging winds, flooding rain, storm surge near the coast, and tornadoes. Tips on how to prepare your hurricane kit and evacuation plan BEFORE the season were highlighted. Knowing your flood zone (D), evacuation route and possible shelter was also discussed.
Staff Sergeant Sherman spoke of the importance of evacuating when advised to. He spoke of his first-hand experience of rescues performed and lives lost because people “waited too long” to leave.
Christi Fulton, NFMFD, gave an overview of conditions locally after the recent hurricanes. She also reminded everyone that emergency services cease when winds reach a sustained speed of 40 MPH. That means NO emergency help for anyone regardless of the emergency. It is important to keep all the emergency responders safe.
Each speaker answered questions from the audience, and ALL HAZARD GUIDES and emergency check lists were given to everyone that attended. Any resident that would like a free guide may obtain one by visiting the table near the HOA office.
The SSEP and CERT committees would like to thank all who attended and participated in this very important presentation.
