intersection along Las Vegas strip

Potential Dangers While Living in Las Vegas

Las Vegas says it’s the biggest little city in the world. Shows like Las Vegas 911 depict it as a laughing stock. In reality, Las Vegas can offer you a lot. You can find great places to eat. 

There’s fun nightlife, and you can enjoy the pleasant weather in the evenings after the sun goes down or in the morning before it rises.

Families who put down roots in Las Vegas might enjoy their time there, but they should watch out for dangers.

Some exist in Las Vegas, just like everywhere else. Knowing about them can protect you if you call Las Vegas your home.

Downtown Las Vegas sign

Driving Hazards and Dangerous Intersections

Las Vegas is a busy city with a lot of tourists and heavy traffic, which can make driving hazardous. Some common hazards to watch out for include reckless or impaired drivers, pedestrians crossing the street unexpectedly, and construction or lane closures.

Additionally, the city’s numerous casinos and bright lights can be distracting for drivers.

In addition, there are several dangerous intersections that have been identified as having high rates of accidents. It’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and drive defensively in order to stay safe on the road.

Crime

Las Vegas makes lots of money from tourists. They come seeking adventure in the casinos, bars, and nightspots. When they do, they encourage criminal elements as well. Prostitution brings crime with it.

Gambling also means tourists and locals walking around with money in their pockets, and that attracts robbers who see chances at a quick score.

Muggings, break-ins, and other crimes happen in Las Vegas, and you should keep your eyes open as you walk or drive around. Watch for anyone who looks suspicious. Stay on the main roads, and don’t venture down any back alleys. You can also stay in well-lit areas.

If you take an Uber somewhere, make sure you get in the right car. Try not going out at night unless you must. Stay at home, and do your shopping and other errands during the day. Night favors criminals who operate using darkness as their cover.

The Heat

Las Vegas has nice times during the early morning or evening, and nights get pleasant frequently. During the days, though, you can experience some brutal heat, especially during the summers. Each summer gets hotter, and record temperatures can kill you through heat stroke.

Stay off the streets and away from direct sunlight in the late morning and throughout the afternoons. Watch the weather forecast and ensure it’s safe when you venture out.

You can also wear sunscreen, and make sure your kids wear some as well. That can protect you from skin cancer and keep you from roasting on punishing days.

Avoiding Dehydration

Dehydration is a significant risk in Las Vegas due to the hot and dry climate, particularly during the summer months.

To prevent dehydration, it is important to drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and caffeine, wear appropriate clothing, stay in the shade, use sunscreen and listen to your body’s signals. 

It is essential to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day, and more if engaging in physical activity or spending time outdoors. It is also important to take breaks when feeling thirsty, dizzy or weak. 

You might also stock up when the store runs specials. Get some sports drinks like Gatorade with plenty of electrolytes. You can replenish yourself with them if you feel woozy while walking or biking during the day.

Dangerous Animals and Insects

You can encounter wildlife in Las Vegas sometimes that is not exactly friendly. You should watch for scorpions. Most don’t bother humans unless you step on one without noticing it.

The bark scorpion can sting you and cause a bad reaction in some cases. It likely won’t kill you, though elderly individuals or young children might experience painful reactions or occasionally fatal ones.

You should watch for coyotes. You can hear them howling at night out in the desert. They like hunting small rodents, but they’ll also venture near human habitation if they smell food. They will claim some trash from your garbage if you let them.

Fasten your garbage cans tightly to deter them, and don’t corner one if you see it in your yard or elsewhere on your property. Coyotes aren’t usually big enough to threaten adult humans, but they might go after a toddler or young child.

They can also carry rabies occasionally, and you shouldn’t risk a bite. Call animal control if you spot one, and keep a safe distance.

Las Vegas has many fun activities and opportunities for families, but watch for the dangers we’ve mentioned. Don’t feel nervous living there, but exercise caution and use common sense. Teach your kids the same lessons, and they should do fine.