First Responders Update

We are thrilled to report that we have accepted EIGHT new candidates for the 2022 class. Thank you to everyone who networked for us and sent eager people our way. The Skidaway Island First Responders work hard to take care of the island. It is humbling when we see so many who are willing to give up their time and help.

I remind everyone once again that we are all VOLUNTEERS. If you’ve not walked in our shoes or needed our services, you possibly can’t wrap your head around what we actually do. It takes commitment, selflessness, and a great deal of patience to respond to all the emergency medical calls on Skidaway Island. Please be mindful when you’re criticizing our group if you’re not sure what it all entails.

It is getting extremely hot, and with that comes all the risks associated with hot weather. As I mentioned in a recent article, pay attention to your body’s signals when you’re outside. It only takes minutes for you to become severely overheated and once you’re there, it’s nearly impossible to hydrate adequately. We all want to enjoy outdoor activities in the summertime. Be diligent when planning so that you can stay hydrated.

Pool safety is another topic that bears repeating. Please make sure you are paying attention when your kids are in or near water. If you have a private pool, ensure that you can see the entire body of water at all times. Pool floats can hinder your view, and it only takes a second for a small child to go under the water. If you’re hosting a party with children at your private home, HIRE A LIFEGUARD.

When you are at the Club pools or one of the Marinas, it is imperative that you are paying close attention to where your kids are at all times. Last summer, we had some close calls, and what we learned is that it takes a village to practice and implement water safety. If you are at one of the pools and notice a child unattended, GET INVOLVED!

The Skidaway Island First Responders cover the entirety of the island. We respond to calls at Modena, South Harbor, The Skidaway Institute of Oceanography, Skidaway Island State Park, The Marshes, Thrive, and everything in between. The rumor that we only respond inside the gates is far from the truth. We cover A LOT of ground.

We’ve recently started to have a social media presence. We have two great volunteers who have worked tirelessly getting these pages up and running. We’d love for you to find us on Facebook, and like and share our page with your friends and family. Our Instagram page currently is under construction. Soon enough, we will be on both platforms.

We have also formed a small committee to advertise and inform the community about who we are and what we do. Stay tuned for more on that as details become available. We have high hopes that both the social media pages and the advertisements will familiarize the island with The Skidaway Island First Responders to reach all demographics. There are too many of our neighbors who have no idea what our role is in the community.

Thank you for your continued support. Stay safe out there!