First Responders Update

I start this month’s article off by thanking both Robin Rackoff and Linda Brownlee for their dedication to the Skidaway Island First Responders. Their tireless efforts made on our behalf are appreciated more than I can express.

The 2025 Mahjong tournament was a huge success, and I’d be remiss not to publicly thank everyone who participated in this year’s tournament and donated to our organization, too. We always are so humbled to see the outpouring of love and support we receive.

We often get alerts for medical emergencies at the Club properties. Both the Oakridge and Franklin Creek campus seems to be where we struggle the most in locating the patient. Please be mindful when calling 911 to always share every detail when asked about location. Every detail matters.

 When we show up to 11 Westcross or 910 Franklin Creek, we need to know specifically where we need to go. The First Responders no longer receive specific details like we used to. When you speak to the dispatcher, please try to remember they don’t know the layout of our island.

On those same lines, if you are playing golf and need help via EMS, please tell the dispatcher what course you’re on. Make sure you give as many precise details as you can discern under duress. I know that there are a lot of moving parts. Adrenaline, stress, worry, and anxiety can contribute to how vague one might be when asking for help.

It is not easy, and I know this from my own personal experience having to call 911 for my friends and family. I have learned by being on both sides of this that the more you tell the person answering the phone, the better they will be in locating you and rendering aid.

As we get closer to the holidays and all the celebrations around this time, we also face the reality of an uptick in EMS calls. Some people can have way too much fun, over consume alcohol, and subsequently make poor decisions. Drinking and driving is never a good idea. And yes, that includes operating a golf cart.

If you are hosting a party at your home, it is 100% your responsibility to ensure the safety of your guests when they depart your home. Assign one person as the designated driver and I can promise you, it will end so much better.

I preach all the time about golf cart safety because it continues to be a huge problem on our island. Regardless of how I feel personally about this topic, it bears repeating, and hopefully it will save a life, too.

Kids will be out of school and home from college during this time, too. Drinking is an Olympic sport to many underaged individuals. If you’re a parent of an underaged young adult, please encourage them to refrain from drinking and driving, too.

 I’ve said this ad nauseam, but if you saw what we’ve seen in the aftermath of car and cart accidents, you’d be more vigilant about this issue. Have the conversations over and over. It’s worth the time and always ensures a favorable outcome.

Along with my entire team, I wish all of you a safe and happy holiday season. We are always one call away and continue to remind you that 911 is the only number to call for all police, fire, and medical emergencies.

Stay safe!