(continued from p. 20) Stay safe: • Always use a credit card instead of a debit card, which has weaker fraud protection. • Research unfamiliar retailers and scrutinize website URLs for small differences. • Ignore unsolicited offers, even if they appear to come from trusted organizations. Reporting Scams If you’ve been targeted, file a police report and notify fraud hotlines. The AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline (877-908-3360) offers support and guidance from trained specialists. free A Note from the Chief Scammers continually evolve their tactics, but awareness and caution are your best defenses. Protect personal information, question unsolicited offers, and verify before you trust. With vigilance, we can reduce the risk of becoming the next victim. As a long time Consumer Advocate and your Neighborhood Watch Chief, I recommend your reviewing these points and if you have any concerns please contact the Lake Wales Police Department, Winter Haven Police Department or the Polk County Sheriffs Office (see page 3 for contact information). Stay safe and enjoy the summer! — Chief Fay Wood, Neighborhood Watch ROAD SAFETY Please keep in mind the streets in Lake Ashton are very narrow and there are many forms of traffic which heightens the danger during busy times. The following practices will help to alleviate dangerous situations on the road. Please encourage vendors doing work at your home to follow the practices below to ensure the roads of Lake Ashton are as safe as possible. • Do not park a vehicle directly parallel to another vehicle • Do not park on a curve • Park as close to the curb as possible 21 Remember, the speed limit throughout Lake Ashton is 20 mph and all golf carts, vehicles, and bicycles should make a complete stop just before the white stop bar whether before or after the posted stop sign. Anyone operating a golf cart on public roads or streets who is under 18 years of age must possess a valid learner’s permit or driver’s license. Lake Wales and Winter Haven police can issue tickets for violations. Adults should not place young children on their laps between them and the steering wheel as this creates a hazardous condition for the children in the case of a panic stop or accidents. PEAK STORM SEASON Residents should be prepared for stormy weather through November 30 when hurricane season ends. A detailed list of storm tips can be found on lakeashtoncdd.com. Pay attention to the lightning detection devices throughout the community and seek shelter when the sirens sound. photo: Dennis Krupinski
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