FC Life

Interview with Mark Hall-Head of Security- December 4, 2018, continued

In the last 13 years there has only been one known, legitimate attempt to enter the community thru the

perimeter fence line. Fortunately the alarm went off in the gate house, due to the cameras installed along

Frenchman’s fence. Patrol cars were sent along the perimeter where the unfortunate entrants were, and

was over without any resident being aware or disturbed. (The criminals saw our security cars responding

and retreated through their opening in the fence.) (Editor’s Note—-That is until a few days ago when an

incident involving car thieves occurred. What few members know is that our security personnel put their

lives in danger trying to apprehend these men.) Cameras and microphones are posted at the entrance

guest lanes which have proved helpful in proving false accusations against our security personal. Cameras

at the club house valet area have proved helpful in proving the valet personnel did not damage cars. Cam-

eras within the club house have helped staff retrieve and return items to residents such as lost purses, eye

glasses, clothes and cell phones. Amazing! Several times teenagers have been caught trying to go through

the fence thinking the ponds are good for fishing. These expeditions have been terminated without prob-

lems. Some of the videos capture other interesting situations, such as an early morning runner stopping

along the Hood Road fence to take R&R. Highly unusual situations may be used for teaching purposes or

legal requirements.

EMTS: The Paramedics must have an ALS (Advanced Life Support) License. This allows our Paramedics to carry all

the drugs and equipment as the fire department. The reason that the fire department comes each time

there is an emergency call to security is due to an agreement between the City of Palm Beach Gardens and

our security provider, Allied Universal. Without this agreement, our security would not be able to assist

the residents when a call comes in and before the Fire Department can arrive. This agreement is with all

the gated communities in our area and Palm Beach Gardens Fire Department. This does not include the

call to EMT to change a medical dressing, or to take blood pressure or remove an earring.

The Paramedics and/or security personnel also have helped residents who need assistance that the aid or

spouse cannot provide such as helping a large person prepare for bed. Usually, in this situation, provisions

are made for more permanent help to step in.

Mr. Hall believes that those living alone should have a medical pendant which will call for help regardless

of where someone is. He said that he would investigate and make recommendations. That is for a future

article. I must note that I had a ball talking with Mr. Hall, watching several of his videos and thank him for

all his time and trouble. We at Frenchman’s have much for which to be grateful.

Louise Albert

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