Safety and Neighborhood Watch Alerts

Dear Residents of Fawn Ridge,

As summer break is in full swing, I would like to notify you of a few safety concerns within the neighborhood which have been shared by residents. All of us would like to continue to keep our community safe so be aware of the issues below and please correct them if they pertain to you.

Red-Light Runners
Be aware there are Red Light Runners at Citrus Park Drive and Fawn Ridge Drive. Many residents had to stop suddenly in the middle of the intersection to avoid an accident. Always be cautious when crossing intersections and report any reckless driving to the non-emergency Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office at 813-247-8200.

Not stopping at Stop Sign
Many cars do not stop at Exposition Drive and Fawn Ridge’s stop sign. Residents have reported they had to stop suddenly to prevent being hit by the vehicles turning onto Fawn Ridge Blvd to exit the neighborhood. I spoke to our Resource Deputy, Tobias Smith, and he has assigned motor units and other patrols to give out citations instead of the warnings they have issued in the past. Please make sure you are obeying the rules of the road for the safety of everyone.

Trespassing
It has been reported that kids are trespassing to gain access to fish in the community’s ponds. Please talk to your children about the importance of respecting other people’s properties and the dangers of entering without permission. The Neighborhood Watch Committee suggests that residents who have concerns should speak to the children and address their concerns with their parents. They also suggest residents report anyone trespassing on private property to the Sheriff’s non-emergency number at 813-247-8200.

Nuisance gators that are 4 ft in length can be reported using the toll-free Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-392-4286.

E-Bikes
Our resource Officers have asked everyone to please wear a helmet when riding an E-Bike to keep you safe and reduce the risk of a head injury by 70%. Although they are considered bicycles in our county, they can still get up to 28+ mph and can be extremely dangerous in an accident. If you have kids riding, please go over road safety and local laws before letting them ride. Our resource officer and the state trooper will be enforcing “All operators and passengers of an electric bicycle under 16 years of age are required to wear a helmet.”

Car Theft
To prevent this from happening, lock your vehicles and do not leave valuables inside. If you have a break-in, report it to the HCSO even if nothing was stolen. They want to be made aware of any criminal activity. Report to the Sheriff’s non-emergency number at 813-247-8200.

I know we can work together to follow these neighborhood safety concerns so we continue to keep our community a safe place to live. Thank you and stay safe!

Jeanne Gorecki
Neighborhood Watch Chairman