SWFL Living Guide

Danger Zone

What actually matters right now.

Verified the law, with sourcesVerified official safety guidanceEstimated our practical adviceVerify before going local knowledge

IN SEASON THIS MONTH

  • AlligatorsHigh
  • CanalsHigh
  • HurricanesHigh
  • Weather on the waterHigh
  • DrivingHigh
Check before you swim
FWC Red Tide StatusFL DEP Algal BloomsHealthy Beaches resultsLee County: Know Your Zone

WHAT ARE YOU WORRIED ABOUT?

OTHER THINGS TO KNOW

  • American crocodiles

    MediumVerified

    Grayish-green with a narrow pointed snout and lower teeth showing (gators are black, rounded snout).

  • Venomous snakes

    MediumVerified

    Closed shoes on trails, flashlight at night, don't reach where you can't see.

  • Fire ants, mosquitoes & no-see-ums

    MediumEstimated

    Don't stand in ant mounds.

  • Red tide

    MediumVerifiedIn season now

    Coughing, eye irritation, dead fish.

  • Heat & sun

    MediumVerified

    Hydrate, use reef-safe sunscreen, protect pets' paws from hot pavement.

  • Shallows & shoals

    MediumVerify before going

    Check tides, follow channel markers, don't cut corners.

Poison Control 1-800-222-1222 — 24/7, free, for people.

ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435 — 24/7, a consultation fee may apply.

Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661 — 24/7, a fee applies.

This guide is general safety information, not a substitute for official warnings. In an emergency, call 911. Always follow posted signs, beach flags, and official alerts.

Emergency
911Gator/Croc
866-392-4286Poison Control
1-800-222-1222