LOCAL NORMS · SAFETY IS PART OF THE CULTURE
Water, wildlife, heat, and weather are not background styling. The local move is to notice conditions early, follow the responsible agency, and leave room to change plans.
OFFICIAL SAFETY LINKS · REVIEWED JUL 13, 2026
At guarded beaches, read the posted flag before entering: double red means water closed; red signals high hazard; yellow medium hazard; green low hazard with caution still required; purple warns of dangerous marine life.
Florida Department of Health ↗Florida storms can build fast. When thunder is audible, leave water and exposed areas and follow official venue or weather guidance. Do not wait under an isolated tree.
National Weather Service ↗Never feed an alligator. Swim only in designated areas during daylight, keep pets leashed and away from the water’s edge, and call the statewide hotline when an alligator poses a concern.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission ↗Do not stand on, touch, or anchor on coral. Use reef-safe behavior, follow sanctuary rules, secure loose gear, and choose operators who brief visitors on the site’s ecological limits.
Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary ↗Many Florida expressways and some bridges use electronic tolling. Check the rental-car program and toll policy before driving so convenience fees are not a surprise.
SunPass ↗Florida’s official preparedness guidance asks households to plan for evacuation, medications, pets, communication, and at least seven days of supplies before a hurricane threatens.
Florida Division of Emergency Management ↗WHEN IT IS URGENT
For a concerning alligator, FWC lists the toll-free Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-392-4286. For evacuation and emergency information, follow your county emergency-management office and official state alerts.