Fort Myers fire department introduces two staff for community risk reduction

Amy Davis and David Widowitz introduced themselves as new members of the City of Fort Myers Community Risk Reduction Division and outlined their duties, which include plan review, inspections and public education.

Amy Davis said she most recently worked for North Collier Fire and previously at South Trail Fire, where she completed plan review as a fire inspector. Davis said her duties with the City of Fort Myers include "reviewing and approving building plans to ensure they meet fire and life safety codes, performing inspections for commercial and multifamily properties, investigating fire safety complaints, and helping enforce alarm and emergency access standards." She added, "My goal is to prevent hazards before they become emergencies."

David Widowitz said he joins the department from North Collier Fire Control and Rescue District and will focus on prevention through outreach and enforcement. He told listeners he will lead public education efforts, meet with neighbors and business owners on fire-safety best practices, perform inspections, and "help guide contractors through the permitting process and enforcement of city fire codes." He said, "The more people know, the more we can make sure we all stay safe."

Both staff members invited residents, business owners and contractors to contact the City of Fort Myers Community Risk Reduction Division with questions about permitting, inspections or fire-safety concerns. The introductions did not include job titles beyond their affiliation with the division and no formal actions or votes were recorded.