Here Are The 15 Biggest Risks Living In The State of Florida

Don't get us wrong, we love living in Florida. Our beautiful, wild Sunshine State is incredible. But if you are thinking about moving to Florida, you do need to realize there are some crazy risks involved with living here. A lot of them seem like cruel jokes made by Mother Nature. From hurricanes to sink holes, to killer bees, it can feel like everything is out to get you here. Here are some of the most notable risks of living in Florida.

1. Hurricanes

This one's probably the most famous of all the risks of living in Florida. We are occasionally hit by hurricanes, and lulls in the pattern can cause a false sense of security. Hurricane season is a very scary thing. Everyone needs to be prepared: stock up on supplies, learn how to protect your family.

2. Lightning

Lightning is another danger you will get fairly used to while living in Florida. It happens pretty frequently. In fact, Florida is the lightning capital of the United States. We have the most lightning-caused injuries and deaths. It is important to not treat lightning like a fireworks display. Always follow lightning warnings!

3. Sharks

Shark attacks are something that is more of a primordial fear that's tough to get over than an actually common risk. The fact that they are statistically quite rare certainly doesn't make them any less terrifying. You may be more likely to be killed in a car accident, but that doesn't mean being attacked by a shark is any less frightening!

4. Rip tide

If you grew up in Florida, you were probably taught not to go too far off the shore. These dangerous currents can sweep you away in seconds. The proper terminology is actually "rip currents," but whatever you call them, they are among the most dangerous things in Florida.

5. Heat Exhaustion

A relative humidity of 60% or more makes sweat evaporation difficult. Living in Florida in the summer means your body will have a tough time cooling down. Heat exhaustion can have serious side effects. Always wear proper clothing and especially concentrate on drinking lots of water. If you have difficulty staying hydrated, consider avoiding caffeine and alcohol.

6. Alligators

They're not just hiding out in remote swamps where no one ever comes across them. We really do have gator encounters in Florida, and they can lead to serious consequences. The zoo is the only safe place to get within distance of an alligator. They can run much faster than you'd think!

7. Killer Bees

Africanized honey bees have been not-so-slowly taking over Florida and the southwestern United States for years now. They are prone to aggressive swarming, and have even been responsible for around 1,000 deaths. They reportedly will chase people up to a quarter-mile if disturbed!

8. Flesh-Eating Bacteria

Warm water is pleasant to swim in, but unfortunately it can also be a breeding ground for bacteria. Florida is known for its abundance of warm water. Vibrio vulnificus, a flesh-eating bacteria, has been in the news a lot lately and has caused several deaths. Don't swim in warm water if you have any open cuts, and make sure to shower off immediately upon exiting the water. This dangerous bacteria can also be found in raw or under-cooked seafood.

9. Sink Holes

Sink holes are disturbingly common in Florida. They appear with absolutely no warning, and can be incredibly destructive, causing property damage and even loss of life.

10. Skin Cancer

If you're thinking about moving to Florida, you're probably excited to spend time in the sun. But the sun's rays can be dangerous. Always wear sunscreen when outdoors!

11. Coral Snakes

Coral snake bites are not common, but they are deadly. They aren't very painful, but they can cause respiratory failure within hours. The paralysis of breathing muscles is not a pleasant way to go. Drug companies don't produce much antivenom, as it's expensive and there isn't much of a demand for it. Always be careful and watch your step in the woods!

12. Brain-Eating Amoeba

Naegleria fowleri thrives in warm, still waters, so Florida is at risk. It isn't extremely common, but those who contract this bacteria rarely live. When swimming in any still water in the summer, it's recommended to keep your head above water. Wear nose plugs: this one enters through the nose. Don't stir up sediment in the water. If possible, don't swim in still water at all. Early symptoms include headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, and a stiff neck.

13. Black Widows

Another thing kids in Florida are taught to avoid is black widows. Everyone knows their distinctive red hourglass pattern on the female's back. Take precautions before digging around in leaves or junk in your attic or garage. Keeping things tidy tends to discourage spiders from even living in the area to begin with.

14. Lionfish

The lionfish is a dangerous invasive species in Florida. Their venomous spines can cause painful injuries. The venom is not likely to kill a healthy human, but it's definitely unpleasant and you'll want to avoid it!

15. Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake

The eastern diamondback is considered the most dangerous venomous snake in the United States. Rattlesnakes do not always rattle before striking, though that is a common misconception. Exercise caution in areas known to be snake habitats. Most snakes are more scared of you than you are of them, but one misstep could cause one to strike out of fear.

Can you think of any other dangerous things in Florida? Share your favorite (well, least favorite!) risk of living in Florida in the comments.