ALL IGATOR ALERT Alligator courtship typically begins in early April, with mating occurring between May and June. Residents may notice male gators lifting their tails high and slapping the water with their jaws to create vibrations throughout the water during mating season. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reminds residents to be cautious when having fun in and around water. The FWC recommends keeping pets away from the water. FWC's Nuisance Alligator Hotline: 866.FWC.GATOR (392-4286). They will give you a reference number that will need to be provided to staff at the Clubhouse if the alligator is in a body of water in Lake Wales or to staff at the HFC if in a body of water in Winter Haven. Alligators and crocodiles are an important part of Florida's heritage and play a valuable role in the ecosystems where they live. Remember, it is illegal to feed or harass alligators. • Always give these reptiles a respectful distance — at least 10 feet — and always leave them alone. • Alligators are nocturnal (more active at night). After dark, avoid fresh and brackish bodies of water, though alligators sometimes lurk in salt water. Unprovoked bites will often occur at the edge of the water. • Never feed alligators; it encourages them to lose their natural fear of people. • Small animals, like pets, and small children are generally more at risk than large adults. • Female alligators protect their nests by hissing and opening their mouths; this does not mean they are preparing to attack. • Alligators under four feet in length are not considered a threat to humans. MEDIA CENTER COMPUTER REMINDER Please remember that the computers in the Media Center are public computers, and residents should use caution when accessing personal or sensitive information. Because these computers are shared by many residents and guests each day, any information left open on the screen or printer can be viewed by others. Taking a few extra moments to log out and clear your information helps protect your identity and keeps the Media Center safe for everyone. These are not personal home computers, so extra care should be taken when using email, banking, or other private accounts. Helpful safety tips: • Log out of email, banking, and social media accounts • Close all browser tabs and windows before leaving • Avoid accessing sensitive financial information when possible • Never save passwords or allow the computer to remember logins • Collect printed documents immediately • Be aware of others who may see your screen PEDESTRIAN SAFETY REMINDERS With the recent Daylight Saving Time change, walkers, runners, bicyclists, and golf carts may be traveling in low-light conditions in early mornings, making visibility especially important. Drivers, please keep an eye out for pedestrians and bicyclists at all times. When walking or bicycling, especially in the early morning or at night, remember to “Be Safe and Be Seen: Make Yourself Visible to Drivers.” • Wear bright or light-colored clothing and reflective materials • Carry a flashlight • Cross in well-lit areas • Stand clear of buses, hedges, parked cars, or other obstacles before crossing • Walkers should walk facing traffic so they can see oncoming vehicles, but bicyclists should ride with traffic, as they are considered vehicles and must follow the same direction-of-travel laws All vehicles, including golf carts and bicycles, must obey all stop signs and the 20 mph speed limit throughout Lake Ashton. A person operating a golf cart on public roads or streets who is under 18 years must possess a valid learner’s permit or driver’s license. 22
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