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16 | SUN LAKES LIFESTYLES | MARCH 2025 | In recent months, our area has experienced heightened risks due to fires and high winds. Securitas and the Safety Committee encourage Sun Lakers to remain prepared and vigilant as more weather conditions and fires are expected. We know what can happen with f lying embers and devastation as experienced in the Los Angeles wild fires. Residents should ensure that their homes are equipped with functioning smoke detectors and fire extinguishers, and we strongly recommend reviewing emergency evacuation plans with family and if possible, with neighbors. Properties on Breckenridge, Bay Hill, the North side, and throughout Sun Lakes, should take steps to keep areas clear of f lammable debris such as dry leaves or overgrown vegetation to help reduce fire hazards. In addition, Securitas advises all residents to stay informed by downloading and monitoring the Cal-Fire Incident website. It is called Watchduty.org and can be downloaded on your smart phone, tablet, or computer. Securitas advises all residents here to be ready by maintaining a ready-to-go emergency kit which includes valuable documents, medications, and any mobility needs. Mike Romero and his Securitas team will be ready to assist anyone in Sun Lakes should evacuation orders be placed, and will work with EPAP in getting help when and where needed. There has been an uptick in homeless activity in nearby areas, which has prompted Securitas to increase patrols and remain proactive in addressing trespassing incidents. While Mike Romero and his team are working diligently to monitor and respond to these occurrences, he also encourages residents to take additional steps to secure their homes. Be sure that doors and windows are locked, even during short absences, and consider using security measures such as doorbell cameras or motion detecting lighting. Valuables should be kept out of sight from windows, and garages should always remain closed when unattended. • If you see something, say something • Keep your pets on a leash • Keep your garage doors closed • Obey trac signs and speed limits • Let's all keep Sun Lakes SAFE! ~ Michael Volz, vmv1950@aol.com Safety Advisory One of the important responsibilities of the GAC is to assure the proper maintenance of the golf courses. Members of the GAC along with the Course Superintendent, Director of Golf, and Board Liaison perform a monthly inspection of the Golf Courses. Many of the maintenance issues we look at come through feedback from golfers, residents, and golf maintenance staff. These inspections provide an in-person view and play an important role in guiding the maintenance recommendations sent to the Master Board. Spring aeration of the greens will take place on the Championship Course on Mon., March 24 and Tues., March 25. The Executive Course greens aeration is the following week on Mon., March 31 and Tues., April 1. The minimal inconvenience of the aeration process is essential in providing the excellent greens we are accustomed to. Performing this maintenance takes all available staff and occurs during the time of year when we see the greatest vegetation growth throughout the courses. The nutrient-rich aeration plugs are recycled to areas of need around the base of trees or perimeter walls filling in bare spots to promote growth and retain soil moisture in these areas. The spread of invasive Kikuyu grass is a maintenance item the GAC hears about regularly. It spreads by seeds and runners making it nearly impossible to control. Using a spring pre-emergent helps in unaffected areas. However, the only way to eradicate established Kikuyu is to kill it with herbicide, dig it out, and re-sod. This has been done periodically with focus on chipping areas around the greens when the budget allows. Pro tips recommends golfers use a shallow swing to avoid fat shots since Kikuyu can be sticky and grab the leading edge of the club. Aside from this advice, the GAC will continue to note areas posing playability challenges and prioritize these areas for targeted eradication when funding is available. ~ Mike Callahan, callahm56@yahoo.com Golf Advisory

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