Posted in Arizona
June 21, 2015
10 Things Everyone In Arizona Should Avoid At All Costs
If you look around, there are plenty of reasons to love our beautiful state. However, that does not mean living here is a utopian joyride. Here are just a few major things you may want to avoid the next time you step outside.
Yes, we live in one of the sunniest states in the US so it doesn’t hurt to wear some sunscreen. According to the CDC, skin cancer is the most common cancer in the US and can be caused by exposure to the sun’s UV rays. Staying out in the sun too long can also lead to…
Drink up that water! Throughout the year, you should be drinking at least 8 cups of water per day. But you will probably need more during the summer months when your body can dehydrate more quickly in the heat. Adding electrolyte drinks can help as well if you spent more time than usual in the heat.
Just like the previous two, heat exhaustion and its more extreme relative heat stroke are entirely preventable. Avoid strenuous activities in the heat, stay hydrated, and stay in cool areas when you can.
I get the heebie jeebies just looking at this guy, which is a stripe-tailed scorpion. Both it and the Arizona bark scorpion are little arthropods you want to avoid. Since they love to hide in dark places, if you live in a scorpion hotbed area make it a habit of ensuring your shoes are scorpion-free by hitting them upside down a few times.
Every monsoon season, at least one person thinks they can outdrive a flash flood. Don’t. If a huge tour bus can get swept away by flash flood waters, don’t assume your little Honda will make it.
The “pull aside, stay alive” campaign is around for a reason. Once the roads start looking like this, the best thing to do is pull off the road to a safe place, turn off your lights, and wait out the dust storm.
I chose this picture for a reason--see how easily the snake blends in with its environment? When you’re out hiking or even just taking the dog for a walk, always be aware of your surroundings and look before you step.
Black cars, leather seats, and Arizona summers (especially in the central and southern regions) don’t mix.
Getting seared by your seat buckle is the worst.
We live in a desert with limited ground water and a few reservoirs that feed the entire southwestern region. You can live without your green lawn and 20 minute showers.
Criticize the politics all you want but if you complain that Arizona is boring or too hot or not green enough, be prepared for a backlash. Plenty of people will just as quickly tell you to move elsewhere.
What else do you recommend your fellow Arizonans or visitors avoid? Let us know in the comments!
