Naples Restaurant Owner Implements Innovative Flood Protection Ahead of Hurricane Season
NAPLES, Fla. — After the devastating floods caused by Hurricane Ian three years ago, Alberto Varetto, owner of the popular Alberto’s on Fifth restaurant in Naples, has taken decisive steps to shield his business from future hurricane-related damage. Varetto’s restaurant suffered significant flood damage during the storm, wiping out much of his life’s work.
Reflecting on the experience, Varetto described the impact as severe. "It was bad," he said, emphasizing the importance of flood preparedness.
In response, he has adopted cutting-edge flood protection technology developed by Xero Technologies. Mark Crabtree, innovation director at Xero Technologies, introduced a custom-fit, inflatable flood barrier called XeroFlood, designed to seal off doorways and prevent water intrusion during severe weather.
"It expands outward and pressurizes itself into the frame of the doorway," explained Crabtree. He noted that the barrier can be made to fit openings of any size, saying, "It doesn’t matter how big the opening is, how small the opening is, we build it to size."
Crabtree hopes that other Naples businesses will follow Varetto’s lead in adopting this protective measure. “If everybody floods, and he doesn’t, then downtown Naples is going to be dead anyway,” he said. “Which he doesn’t want and nobody wants.”
With this new technology installed, Varetto can now concentrate on his passion—serving the Southwest Florida community—without the looming fear of flood damage each hurricane season. He advises others in the area not to wait until a storm is imminent to prepare but to begin protection efforts well in advance.
“Don’t wait until the hurricane will come, but start to work and get ready for it,” Varetto urged.
This proactive approach by a local business owner highlights the growing importance of innovative solutions in mitigating hurricane-related risks and ensuring economic resilience in vulnerable communities.
Copyright 2025 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved.
