How to Stay Safe and Make the Most of Your Visit to Broward County

If you are planning to visit Broward County, Florida, you will find lots to do. Whether you are visiting family, taking a vacation, or just getting away with your partner for a few days, there is plenty to do. 

From soaking up the sun on a beautiful beach in Fort Lauderdale or exploring nature at one of Broward County’s parks and nature centers, there is something for everyone to enjoy. You can tour beautiful homes and historic sites in Oakland Park or explore the fun attractions at the Museum of Discovery and Science. A riverboat ride or a kayak might be more to your liking.

Whatever you decide to do while visiting Broward County, it is essential to stay safe. You do not want an accident, injury, or another incident to ruin your trip. 

Here are a few safety tips to follow when visiting Broward County, Florida.

Protect Your Personal Safety in Broward County

Always be aware of your surroundings, especially when you are out of town. People target tourists because they are not paying attention.

Some tips for personal safety include:

• Always remain alert and aware
• Do not go into areas that are poorly lit or overgrown
• Let someone know where you are going and when you will return
• If you intend to enjoy alcohol while you are out, designate a sober friend to watch over everyone and get them back safely at the end of the day or evening
• Do not carry large amounts of cash, credit cards, or valuables
• Do not enter a darkened stairwell or go into a dark parking lot alone
• Lock shopping bags in your trunk or out of sight in your car instead of carrying multiple shopping bags 
• Do not give the impression that you have so much money that you would be worth robbing
• Do not count money in public or go through your credit cards or wallet in public
• Always keep your hotel room or rental house locked when you leave and when you are there
• Use the hotel safe to store valuables

You are visiting Broward County to have fun. If you feel uncomfortable and unsafe in a situation, leave as soon as possible. 

Stay Healthy While You Visit South Florida

Before you leave home, make sure that you have all the prescription medications you need during your trip. It is also wise to carry over-the-counter pain relievers, antacids, and any medications you take regularly. 

Stay hydrated while you are visiting Broward County. The Florida sun and heat can take a toll, especially if you are not accustomed to the weather. If you participate in strenuous outdoor activities, take regular breaks to rest and rehydrate in the shade. 

Bring sunscreen and use it often. You may also want to wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your head and eyes from the sun. Sunburns are painful and can be dangerous if they cover large areas of the body.

If you have a health condition that could require medical treatment, bring a copy of your recent medical records. Make a note of the nearest hospital and doctor’s office. Write the numbers down in your room and program them into your phone with the facility’s address.

Understand Florida’s Traffic Laws

The traffic laws in each state are similar, but Florida does have some unique driving conditions. Make sure that you understand Florida’s seat belt laws and child safety seat laws. You do not want to get an expensive ticket while you are here.

Also, it is wise to review the laws regarding the use of cell phones while driving in Florida. The Wireless Communications While Driving Law took effect on July 1, 2019. The law bans texting while driving and using electronic devices to email, text, and instant message while driving. 

If you are involved in a car accident while visiting Broward County, you should pull over at the first safe location and call 911 to report the crash. Car crashes that result in personal injury, death, or property damage of at least $500 must be reported to the police. 

Because you will need to deal with the car accident from your home state, try to take pictures of the accident scene. Ask eyewitnesses for their names and contact information. Ask the police officer for the number you need to call to request a copy of the police report after you return home. 

If you do live out of state, the best course of action would involve getting help from a respected car accident lawyer in Broward County. A local attorney will have experience handling car accident cases like yours, know the parties involved (and give you leg up during settlement negotiations), and be able to take care of things in Florida if you’re not physically present.  

Stay Safe and Enjoy Your Stay

Broward County is one of the top destinations in Florida. Make sure that you understand how to keep yourself and your family safe while you visit so that you can make wonderful memories with your friends and family members.