Dangers and Hazards in the Everglades: What Visitors Must Know

The Everglades' wild beauty comes with real risks. Visitors should prepare for:

1. Alligators & Crocodiles: Keep ≥3 meters (10 ft) away; never swim in their habitat.
2. Venomous Snakes: Rattlesnakes, cottonmouths, copperheads—wear closed shoes, watch steps in tall grass.
3. Biting Insects: Mosquitoes, no-see-ums, chiggers—use repellent, cover skin.
4. Intense Sun: Subtropical UV—wear sunscreen, hat, sunglasses.
5. Dehydration: Heat and humidity—drink water constantly.
6. Getting Lost: Vast, featureless terrain—stay on marked trails, carry map/compass/GPS.
7. Sudden Weather: Thunderstorms, hurricanes, flash floods—check forecasts, have emergency plan.

Awareness and preparation ensure a safe, memorable visit to this unique subtropical wilderness.