We can all probably agree that there are some dangers of living in Arizona, right? Arizona is an amazing and beautiful place to live but it doesn't come without its risks. But, hey, if you like adventure and the prospect of encountering danger, then it may just be the place for you. Still, everyone should be aware of the risks of living in Arizona if they plan on being there. Stay safe, and keep a watchful eye on these 10 Arizona dangers if you plan to move to our beautiful state.
1. Let's start with an easy one: the heat.
In a state that is notorious for extremely hot summers, coming down with a heat-related illness such as heat exhaustion can happen quick. Be prepared for the heat; after all, it's typical Arizona weather.
2. Encountering coyotes, mountain lions, and other predatory wildlife.
Most of Arizona is still quite rural, so you're bound to encounter one of these creatures at least once. However, just remember Arizona's wildlife was here first and you're encroaching on their territory.
3. You may find yourself playing a real life game of “Frogger” with the wildlife, livestock, and stray dogs.
If you've been driving along Beeline Highway for the last thirty years, you may have noticed that the deer have become just a little more accommodating to human presence. Sometimes they don't even run back into the woods when a vehicle drives by; some just continue chewing their weeds and twigs on the roadside. However, that doesn't mean one of them won't go dashing across the road. Take care when driving in rural areas.
4. Trying to find cell service in remote parts of the state can be tough.
It's not so bad when you're trying to "unplug" for the weekend but what if an emergency pops up and you have to risk wandering around for a signal? That's just another of the Arizona dangers of which you should be prepared.
5. Flash floods are never fun.
Well, they may be fun to look at but definitely not to experience first hand. Don't drive in flood-prone areas during a storm and don't think you can outrun the flood. You can't, you won't, and you'll end up on the evening news as someone who had to be saved by public emergency services.
6. Speaking of rain, driving at all in the rain can be a pretty risky endeavor.
Those desert people seem to forget how to drive in the rain. Maybe it's best to stay home.
7. By the way, our water situation isn't that great either.
While a big chunk of our water is stored in massive reservoirs, about 40 percent of Arizona's water is sourced from groundwater and that is DIFFICULT to replenish.
8. According to the CDC, firearms may be risky.
In a previous study, the CDC listed Arizona's most distinctive cause of death as "discharge of firearms, undetermined intent." Were these accidents, murders, or a warning shot gone wrong? Who knows but here's this: about one-third of Arizonans own a gun and the state sits somewhere in the middle of the statistics list when it comes to gun-related murders in the country. Always practice gun safety and use your noggin before pulling the trigger.
9. Breathing in all that dusty air in Arizona could be bad for your health.
Other than pollution, another potentially risky bit about the air is contracting valley fever. A fungus living in the soil known as Coccidiodes immitis, it can turn into an infection that causes flu-like symptoms when inhaled. Most people don't require much treatment other than rest and fluids but it is possible for the infection to worsen.
10. But despite all of that, you also run the risk of falling in love.
If you're wondering "is Arizona a good place to live?" The answer is a resounding, YES! Just be prepared for the typical Arizona weather (HEAT) and be aware of the dangers of living in Arizona and you'll fall in love.
Thankfully, most of these (except, perhaps, number 10) are situations that are entirely preventable. My dad taught me to always practice vigilance and common sense when in the city or in the wilderness, so that's the best advice I can give you as well, reader.
Do you agree that these are some of the dangers of living in Arizona? What are some other big risks to living in Arizona? Let us know in the comments! Despite the risks, there is a lot to love about the Grand Canyon State, too.
And, if you are like us, we love to wear our Arizona pride. Get yours and show off this great state that we call home.
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