Security Update 

          COVID-19 Update  If you had told me a year ago when I wrote my first article regarding COVID-19 that we would continue to face challenges with this virus a year later, I would not have believed it. However, here we are one year later, and we continue to hold virtual meetings, practice social distancing, and wear masks, and each comes with its challenges. Misconceptions about face masks continue to be a concern. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that people wear face masks in public settings, especially indoors and when social distancing is difficult. Wearing your mask correctly and consistently is crucial for protecting yourself and others. Several websites, such as the CDC, the World Health Organization, and Johns Hopkins Medicine, offer advice on face masks. Despite all the information available about the proper methods for wearing a face mask, it appears that some people have missed the fundamentals. If you know someone who may need a little extra assistance with their mask-wearing technique, please feel free to share the following information: DO:

• Wear a mask to help prevent getting and spreading the virus.
• Correctly wear your mask by covering your mouth, nose, and chin.
• Make sure your mask fits snugly against the sides of your face.
• Wear a mask in public settings.

DO NOT: 

• Leave your mouth, nose, and chin uncovered.
• Wear a wet or damaged mask.
• Touch or adjust your mask without properly washing or sanitizing your hands.

The COVID-19 vaccine is now available. Please complete your due diligence and make an informed decision on whether you want to receive the vaccine. If you choose to get the vaccine, the CDC strongly urges you to continue standard COVID-19 mitigation protocols, including handwashing, social distancing, and properly wearing masks. Golf Cart and Community Path Update  As part of our commitment to improving safety and the overall experience on our community paths, the Security Department increased its presence on the paths in 2020. Our goal was to educate residents on the Rules and Regulations regarding golf carts in our community. One of our educational tools is warnings and citations. Last year, the dedicated and hardworking Security Officers issued 113 golf cart violation warnings and citations, a 94.8% increase from 58 in 2019. Residents are reminded that fines for vehicle and golf cart violations have increased to $100 for a second offense, $250 for a third offense, and $1,000 for subsequent offenses. We hope these increased fines will bring even more attention (and compliance) to golf cart and community path safety. Disappointedly, the number of accidents involving golf carts increased from 13 in 2019 to 28 in 2020. These figures include single cart accidents as well as carts versus bicycles, golf carts, pedestrians, vehicles, and even the gate arms. When you consider the amount of traffic we have on the island, having only 28 accidents can be viewed as remarkable for an entire year. However, our goal is zero golf cart-related crashes. Your assistance is required to achieve this goal, as personal accountability comes into play. Enforcement and increased fines are only a portion of the overall safety equation. We need your help to complete the rest of the formula for success. Please do your part, and drive safely and responsibly.