Thank you very much, MrBling and cntrydncr1
@MrBling
What a brilliant and informative post, thank you !!!
Here is some advice from me, a native Floridian:
Weather- Thunderstorms can occur any afternoon. These storms frequently have dangerous lightning, which can strike the ground even while the clouds are several miles away. If you see a storm approaching and hear thunder, get into a building or vehicle. Being in an open area such as a beach or golf course during a storm is especially dangerous.
We are in hurricane season, so if a tropical storm is reported pay attention to the weather reports. Otherwise, the weather will just be hot so drink plenty of fluids.
Severe Thunderstorms are rather seldom in my country, but I have experienced some heavy ones in southern Europe and North Africa. I have very much respect for this weather fenomenon. I hope we wont experience a hurricane.
Beachwear- Buy a good quality sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or 45 and apply it often while in the sun. A bad sunburn will make you miserable. Sunglasses and a hat also make beach detecting more comfortable. Take a water bottle also
I know of that too from my summerholidays in southern Europe.
Insects- You might encounter mosquitoes, biting gnats or biting flies at some locations, but not at others. Usually they are not bothersome during the day
Water safety- Many, many tourists have to be rescued from the water in my area each year because they don't understand the ocean, overestimated their abilities and tried to swim when the water was too rough. Each year some die from drowning. Most beaches in Florida do not have lifeguards. Don't go in the water if the waves are too large or if rip currents are occurring. If you get caught in a rip current just float and try to swim parallel to the beach-don't swim against the current.
Yes, I know that is important. We are aware of the danger of the ocean. My country consists mostly of islands, and Danes have the respect for the sea in the gens. Unfortunately many tourists in my country, that do not know the dangers of the sea, drown every year !
Animals- Watch out for jellyfish - at certain times there are lots of them in the water. Their stings are painful. Especially watch out for a type with a top like a purple or blue balloon. These are known as "Portuguese Man o" Wars" and they are dangerous. The remedy for a jellyfish sting is to apply either vinegar, ammonia, baking soda or meat tenderizer to the sting site. Never put fresh water on a sting- it makes it worse.
If you see a snake just stay away from it. Most snakes are not venomous, but we have several species that are highly venomous and not being familiar with our snakes you won't know the difference
Florida has about 1.5 million alligators. Do not feed or pet the alligators
We have about a billion sharks, I guess. You are very very unlikely to be bitten by a shark. However, do not go in the water at night- prime shark feeding time.
Do not feed dolphins- it is bad for them and is illegal.
Do not feed pelicans or other large seabirds
If you happen to find a sea turtle or its nest on the beach- do not disturb it. Messing with a sea turtle nest is a serious crime in Florida
Thank you for the info about the animals. The idea of petting an alligator wouldn´t have occured to me
I´m sure my wife would want to go home immediately, if she sees a snake, hopefully she wont. Large spiders would be even worse !
Two legged animals- We do have criminals in Florida. The way to avoid them is to use common sense and most of all stay out of bad neighborhoods. Don't leave valuables in your car if you can avoid it or if you must, at least put them out of sight. Don't walk around isolated areas at night. Be especially careful in the Miami area. Do not feed or pet the homeless or other beggars. And again, stay away from bad neighborhoods
I have read about that problem in Miami, we will be careful !
For the best success in beach detecting, hunt the major tourist beaches in each area you visit. You'll find loads of coins and hopefully some nice jewelry also. The best time to hunt is before 11:00AM and after 4:00PM because the crowds are less and the sun and temperature are less intense.
Good luck , and post pictures of your trip and finds when you get home
Thank you very much for a very informative post. I will post some pictures and a story in this Florida section, when I get home !