First Responders Update 

 As we all try to navigate these uncertain and strange times in which we’re living, we also have to realize how blessed we are to live where we do. The Landings Association and The Landings Club have made this experience so much better for us, and their attempt to keep things “normal” has not gone unnoticed. 

Everyone is anxious, paranoid, afraid, and uncertain of what the next day will bring. I hope all of you have turned off the television and stopped watching the news. Mental health is as important as physical health. The news is TERRIBLE for our mental health. 

We hope that those of you who’ve called 912-355-6688 have noticed that your response time and care hasn’t changed since our group decided to push the pause button on our services during this critical time. 

I can speak for all of us when I say it’s painful to hear the pager go off and the sirens blaring and not be able to help. We miss the community and helping more than you could ever know. We are so fortunate to have three amazing Paramedics from Chatham Emergency Services (CES) taking care of us during this time. 

While driving outside on the golf cart, I’ve noticed many individuals riding bikes without helmets. Please consider the risks when making that choice. We’ve seen countless traumatic injuries resulting from bike accidents WITH HELMETS -- imagine what can happen without one. 

I hope everyone is practicing social distancing. We can’t make this go away without doing our part. We all miss our life before COVID-19. We can’t expect it to magically go away if we are part of the problem. Be smart. Wash your hands. Keep your distance at least six feet from others, and limit your time in Publix. 

If you call 912-355-6688 because you’re not feeling well, please remember to give the dispatcher as much information as possible. As I’ve mentioned before, you can’t expect them to ask the right questions. It’s only fair to the paid personnel to know what they’re walking into when responding to you or a family member. 

If you start feeling unwell, make sure you document your symptoms. Write down when symptoms start, how you feel, and keep a journal so that when EMS arrives, you’ll have good medical history documented. It’s also helpful if you go to the hospital to have that kind of information accessible. 

I am cautiously optimistic we will be able to find our way back to some semblance of normalcy one day soon. I pray that all of you are well, taking care of your mental health, and keeping your anxiety at bay as much as possible. Please know that the Skidaway Island First Responders are anxiously waiting to get back to work. 

Be well and stay safe!