- Managers and residents in communities everywhere should have an emergency plan in place in the unlikely event of any kind of natural disasters:
- Hurricane
- Tornado
- Earthquake
- Blizzard
- Flood
- Associations should also have a plan for reacting to other types of emergencies, like incidents or accidents that can happen at any of the community areas:
- Pool / Lake
- Playground
- Basketball / Tennis Court
- Community-sponsored events
- Communities should have easy access to a First-Aid kits (including allergy treatment epinephrine auto-injector (Epi-Pen), to prevent potential life-threatening allergic reactions (anaphylaxis).
- Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT)
- Gated communities should ensure that emergency personnel (police, firemen, EMTs) have access to the community and all residential units, at any time of day or night? Do they have a map of the community so they can find the picnic area, pool, or playground easily?
- Emergency Procedures and Phone Numbers should be posted prominently at the Association Office, Club House and other Common Areas. These should include how to shut down Water, Electric and Gas lines.
- Keep Summer Fun and Safe around the Pool:
- Children are particularly vulnerable in the pool area
- Drowning is the leading cause of death in children under age 5, and the second leading cause of injury-related death for kids under the age of 15
- 80% of drowning deaths occur in residential swimming pools
- Community Summer Staff / Pool Lifeguards should be well-trained, CPR-certified
- Pool drains and chemicals should be checked regularly
- Association Pool Rules (no running, no horseplay, no glass, etc.) should be posted prominently and enforced consistently
During Annual Members Meeting, it may be good idea to update all residents on emergency plans and what steps to take during all types of emergency situations, including Incidents, Accidents and Natural Disasters.
Have a Fun & Safe Summer!!
