ALL IGATOR ALERT Now that the weather has warmed up, cold-blooded reptiles such as alligators can be more active. 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. For residents who have concerns with an alligator that poses a threat to humans, pets or property, call the FWC's Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866.FWC.GATOR (392.4286). 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. If you see an alligator: • Always give these reptiles a respectful distance — at least 10 feet — and always leave them alone. • Alligators are nocturnal animals, more active during the night. After dark, avoid fresh and brackish bodies of 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. NW: CONSUMER AND CRIME PREVENTION AWARENESS By Fay Wood, NW Chief Lake Ashton is a vibrant active adult community where many of our residents use contractors and handy men for repairs and services with their property. Residents should be aware of some prudent actions they should take when contracting with providers for their services: 1. Strive to use only licensed, insured and bonded providers for services. Having providers that do not meet that criteria may expose you to liability with your insurance or city Code Compliance should those services fail or lead to complications with your property. Additionally, a background check should be required of anyone who has access to your property. If the service provider uses non-posted vehicles or privately owner vehicles in disrepair, a resident should take special note to vent that provider with the Better Business Bureau. Doing this will help you ascertain the company’s business stability or if there has been any complaints on their service. Always ask for numerous references and check them. 2. Never allow any contractor free access to your property without supervision, especially inside your residence. It is extremely unwise to give any type of access control (keys, lock combinations, etc.) to contractors at any time. 3. Always have a written agreement outlining scope of work, pricing, schedule of work and remedies should the services not meet the requirements. 4. If at anytime you feel uncomfortable with a provider on your property, please feel free to contact law enforcement for their assistance. While there are some residents who provide these services, remember, when they are working for you, they are not your neighbors but contractors who should meet the same criteria as those from outside the community. The aforementioned actions are especially important for contractors from outside the community. Generally most contractors (including handymen) work within Lake Ashton without incident, but there have been some concerns regarding this subject so Neighborhood Watch leadership wanted to make you aware from the consumer advocacy and crime prevention perspective. Your Neighborhood Watch Team is providing this information so that residents can make informed decisions and keep Lake Ashton the safe and fun place to live.
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