With the weather cooling off, you and your family may be planning one last trip south before winter sets in. Miami is a perfect vacation spot, with white sand beaches, a fascinating cultural melting pot, and beautiful wildlife. Unfortunately, some of these attractions can pose a danger to you and your family.

Before you set out on your trip to Miami, it’s a good idea to learn what you may need to prepare for on your trip. Read on to discover our top safety tips when visiting Miami, and ensure that your family has the best vacation possible.

Prepare for the Weather

One of the things that makes Florida such a popular vacation spot is the sunny, warm weather. Florida has average temperatures in the 70s, and Miami gets 249 days of sunshine every year. Unfortunately, this balmy weather can also pose a threat.

Make sure to put on plenty of sunscreen before venturing out into the sun, and plan to hydrate often. You’ll dehydrate faster in the heat, and it’s important to replenish. You’ll also need to take breaks indoors so you avoid heatstroke.

Between June and November, Florida is prone to hurricanes. Check the forecast before your trip and make sure there isn’t a hurricane headed toward Miami during your travel dates. If at all possible, avoid visiting Florida when a hurricane is on the way.

Defend Against Criminals

Aside from the weather, one of the biggest threats you’ll face in Miami is from your fellow humans. Cities like Miami are popular with tourists, and criminals know that. Pickpockets and muggers sometimes target tourists, so try to stay in well-lit, well-populated areas, especially at night, and keep your valuables secure.

Florida has also recently enacted some legislation that places members of the LGBTQ+ community at risk. The Human Rights Campaign has issued a travel advisory warning LGBTQ people of the dangers they may face when traveling to Florida. The ACLU has also previously issued travel advisories for people in racial minorities visiting Florida.

Always remain aware of your surroundings, and take any precautions that may be recommended for you when traveling.

Practice Beach Safety

Florida’s beautiful beaches are one of its top attractions, and you may already be dreaming of basking in the sunshine. But it’s important to follow a few safety tips before you spread your beach towel.

It’s more important than ever to wear sunscreen and hydrate when you’re spending all day out in the sunshine. It’s also a good idea to be aware of rip tides and dangers in the water, such as jellyfish. Always follow posted rules and directions from any lifeguards on duty when you’re hanging out on the beach.

Give Wildlife Space

Florida is home to some amazing wildlife, including flamingos, herons, dolphins, manatees, beavers, otters, and more. You can also find bears, bobcats, sharks, and alligators in its beautiful natural spaces.

It’s important to always give wild animals plenty of space. Never approach or feed a wild animal, even if you think it’s safe to do so. If you accidentally come up on a wild animal, back away slowly and certainly do not try to touch it.

And remember insects are among the fauna that call Florida home. Mosquito and tick bites can carry deadly diseases, and some spider bites can be very dangerous. Wear bug repellant when you plan to be out and about in wooded areas, and always check for ticks when you get back from these excursions.

Drive Carefully

Miami is a city of nearly 440,000 people and averages two cars per household. Traffic can be chaotic, to say the least, and each year Miami-Dade county suffers more than 63,000 car crashes. When visiting Florida, if you plan to drive anywhere, you need to be aware and use caution.

Always use defensive driving practices when driving around Miami. Use extra care when driving in areas you’re unfamiliar with, and obey all posted speed limits. It’s always a good idea to slow down when it’s dark or raining, as well as in pedestrian-heavy areas.

If you are involved in a car accident, a personal injury lawyer can help, there are many attorneys in Florida that you can help you to obtain compensation for your claim, such as https://shakedlaw.com/.

Talk to Your Children About Safety

Your children may be just as excited about this upcoming trip to Miami as you are. And while you certainly don’t want to scare them, it’s important to discuss safety with them before you leave.

Give your kids a few basic safety tips, including how to find help if they need it and that they need to always stay close to you out in public. It may be a good idea to set up a designated spot to meet in case the two of you do get separated and to teach them how to call 911 if needed.

Prepare for a Fantastic Vacation

A Florida vacation can be a wonderful way to cap off your summer. But it’s important to make sure you stay safe during your trip to Miami. Be prepared for the weather in Miami, including heat and hurricanes, and always be sure to give wildlife plenty of space. Drive carefully and talk to your children about how to stay safe during your trip.