Living in Florida involves many things: sun, humidity, canals... and alligators. That's why knowing how to react to a potential encounter can save your life.
The Spanish rescuer Miguel Assal, known for teaching first aid on social media, has explained clearly and directly what to do if you encounter one of these animals.
In a viral reel published recently, Assal debunks one of the most widespread myths: “If you're on land, run in a straight line, not in a zigzag. That's their maximum speed. They run between 11 and 15 kilometers per hour. They're not that slow either.”
The emergency specialist warns that if you are within a meter of a crocodile, your reaction must be immediate, because “at that range, they move with great speed due to their hunting instinct.”
But if the encounter is in the water, things change: “There you have nothing to do,” he insists.
In their natural habitat, crocodiles can reach speeds of up to 40 km/h, a pace that is impossible to match while swimming, not even with your first two strokes at full power.
According to Assal himself, around 1,000 people die each year from crocodile attacks worldwide, an alarming figure that compels a serious consideration of safety advice.
Florida is one of the U.S. states with the highest presence of crocodiles and alligators in urban areas.
Natural parks, lagoons, residential canals, and even backyards can be the setting for encounters with these animals.
Therefore, maintaining distance, not feeding them, and alerting the authorities if they appear near homes are essential measures.
A new study from the University of Florida revealed that nearly all alligator attacks in the state are caused by human behavior.
The research, published in April, concludes that 96% of the recorded attacks since 1948 occurred in contexts where people engaged in risky behaviors, such as swimming or wading in areas known for the presence of these reptiles, reported ClickOrlando.
Frequently Asked Questions About How to Escape a Crocodile and Living with Alligators in Florida
How should I run to escape a crocodile on land?
Run in a straight line, not in a zigzag. Crocodiles can reach speeds of up to 15 kilometers per hour on land, so running in a zigzag will not give you an advantage. Stay calm and run as fast as you can in a straight line to distance yourself from the crocodile.
What to do if you encounter a crocodile in the water?
There’s not much you can do if you encounter a crocodile in the water, as they can reach speeds of up to 40 km/h. It is crucial to avoid swimming in areas known to be inhabited by crocodiles and to pay attention to local warnings.
What safety measures should be followed in Florida to avoid alligator attacks?
To minimize the risk of dangerous encounters with alligators in Florida, maintain a safe distance if you see one, avoid swimming outside of designated areas, especially during dawn and dusk, do not feed them, and keep pets away from the water's edge.
Why are alligator sightings increasing in urban areas of Florida?
Sightings of alligators in urban areas of Florida increase mainly during the mating season, when these reptiles become more active and tend to move to new areas in search of a mate, even in residential neighborhoods.
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