Summer in Florida is a unique experience. While being on hurricane watch may be your association's primary focus, you can also benefit your community by properly preparing for the everyday effects of Summer in Florida. The heat, humidity, and regular, often heavy rains can cause regular headaches if not planned for appropriately. Below are a few ways to prepare your community and residents for the Florida Summer.
Pool Maintenance
If your community has a pool, it's important to maintain it properly, especially considering it will get more use as people try to cool off and the kids are out of school. Your pool maintenance company should maintain the chemical balance, keeping the filtration system running efficiently and keeping it clean. Check the pool's safety equipment, including life rings and first aid kits. Make sure these items are accessible and your resident know where they are kept.
Maintain Landscaping
Ensure that the community's landscaping is properly maintained. Trim trees and shrubs to provide adequate shade and improve airflow. Regularly water lawns, plants, and trees to keep them healthy and prevent wilting.
Outdoor Amenities and Safety
Inspect outdoor amenities like playgrounds, picnic areas, and common seating areas that will become more popular over the summer. Now is a good time to check that these items are in good condition and meet safety standards.
Promote Water Conservation
Educate residents about water conservation practices, especially during the hot summer months. Encourage your landscaping team to use drought-tolerant or indigenous plants and mulching. Set timers for watering landscaping during cooler times of the day to reduce water waste.
Inspect and Maintain Irrigation Systems
Check the community's irrigation systems for leaks, clogs, or other issues. Ensure sprinklers are properly adjusted to avoid wasting water and ensure efficient coverage. Consider installing rain sensors to prevent irrigation during rainy periods.
Encourage Energy Efficiency
Provide information to residents about energy-saving practices, such as using ceiling fans, closing blinds or curtains during the hottest part of the day, and adjusting thermostats to conserve energy. Consider organizing community-wide initiatives, like switching to energy-efficient light bulbs or hosting workshops on energy conservation.
Emergency Preparedness
It’s not all about hurricanes, though admittedly, most of your emergency preparedness plans over the summer will be. Prepare for heat-related emergencies too, by educating residents about the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Encourage them to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities during the hottest hours, and check on vulnerable neighbors, such as the elderly or those with health conditions.
Pest Control
Hot weather and rains can bring an increase in pests, such as mosquitoes, ants, and palmetto bugs. Implement measures to control pests, such as regular garbage collection, mosquito repellent stations, and proactive pest control treatments.
Summer Is Right Around the Corner!
Remember, each property and each association is unique, so tailor these tips to suit your specific circumstances. Implementing some or all of these measures can help your community stay comfortable and safe during the hot summer months.