SWFL Living Guide

Danger Zone

What actually matters right now.

Law / Rule the law, with sourcesOfficial guidance official safety guidanceSWFL Living recommendation our practical adviceLocal knowledge local knowledge

IN SEASON THIS MONTH

  • AlligatorsHigh
  • Bufo (cane) toadsHigh
  • CanalsHigh
  • Vibrio vulnificusHigh
  • HurricanesHigh
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

  • Lightning

    HighOfficial guidanceIn season now

    Lightning is a serious Florida hazard, especially during summer thunderstorms.

  • Weather on the water

    HighOfficial guidance

    Check the forecast before leaving the dock and file a float plan with someone on shore.

  • Driving

    HighOfficial guidance

    Pedestrians and cyclists face significant roadway risk in Florida, especially around busy multilane roads and intersections.

  • American crocodiles

    MediumOfficial guidance

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

  • Venomous snakes

    MediumOfficial guidance

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

  • Stingrays

    MediumOfficial guidanceIn season now

    Do the stingray shuffle: slide your feet instead of stepping.

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