Page 25 - November 2025 Cascadian

Safety and
Security Committee
Your Safety and Security Committee:
William Gordon Jr, Marjorie Osheroff,
James Fitzgerald, Barry Karet, James O’Brien
Tach Tech Facts
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January 1, 2025 – September 19th 2025: 73,068 guests
were checked in at the gatehouse
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September 2025 is the highest month at the main gate
for checking in guests through EIQ so far this year.
Facts to Share
A gated 55+ community typically provides enhanced
security features and a safer environment, though
residents should still remain vigilant against specific
risks. While gates, surveillance, and patrols deter some
crime, they do not guarantee complete safety. Many
risks are unique to the senior population, including
vulnerability to scams and personal safety concerns
related to mobility or health.
How gated 55+ communities enhance safety
These communities combine controlled access with
features designed specifically for the needs of older
residents.
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Community-wide security
Controlled access: Gated entrances, often monitored
by guards, security cameras, or electronic systems (key
fobs, RFID tags, or keypads), restrict entry to residents,
approved guests, and authorized service personnel.
Surveillance: Closed-circuit TV (CCTV) systems are
often used to monitor common areas, entrances, and
parking lots.
Patrols: Many communities employ on-site security
or resident-led neighborhood watch programs to
monitor the community regularly.
Reduced traffic: Fewer non-resident vehicles create
a calmer environment and reduce the risk of traffic
accidents involving pedestrians.
Built-in deterrence: Strategic landscaping and ample
lighting reduce opportunities for crime by eliminating
dark spots and blind corners.
In-home safety and security
Emergency response systems: Many homes have
built-in systems with call buttons in accessible areas,
such as bathrooms and bedrooms, or provide residents
with wearable alert devices.
Smart technology: Remote-lock systems, video
doorbells, and automated lighting controlled via
smartphone or other devices can enhance security and
convenience.
Fire safety: Senior communities are often equipped
with advanced fire safety features, including smoke
detectors, sprinkler systems, and community-wide
emergency response plans.
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Fall prevention: Communities are often designed
with smooth sidewalks, good lighting, and features
like grab bars and non-slip flooring to reduce the risk
of falls.
Risks and how to mitigate them
Despite the added protection, residents should
take personal precautions and be aware of specific
vulnerabilities.
Crime risks
While studies show a lower burglary risk compared to
non-gated areas, no community is impenetrable.
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False sense of security: Residents can become
complacent and neglect basic security measures, like
locking doors and windows, due to the presence of a
gate.
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Visitor vulnerabilities: Intruders can enter by
following residents through the gate or posing as a
delivery or service person.
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Mitigation: Always verify that doors and windows are
locked, and do not let unfamiliar individuals into the
community. Inform the guard or management when
expecting visitors or contractors.
In-home emergencies
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Medical incidents: While many residents are healthy,
some may have conditions that increase the risk of falls
or medical emergencies.
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Fire hazards: Unattended cooking, smoking, and
unsafe use of space heaters are common fire risks
among older adults.
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Mitigation:
o Stay connected: Maintain strong social connections
with neighbors who can check in on you.
o Fire safety: Use cooking timers and be cautious with
electrical cords and heating elements.
o Emergency contacts: Ensure you have access to
emergency services and that key individuals have a
way to access your home in an emergency.
Steps for residents to enhance safety
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Get involved: Participate in neighborhood watch
programs to build a connected community where
people look out for each other.
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Bolster home security: Upgrade locks on all doors and
windows, and consider installing a monitored home
security system with features like motion detectors
and fire alarms.
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Educate yourself: Stay informed about common scams
and security practices. Local police often offer free
informational sessions for senior communities.
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Maintain awareness: Continue to be vigilant about your
surroundings, and never assume that the community
gate provides absolute protection.
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