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The emergency number 911 is toll free, including from payphones.

Always keep your antennae out for potential trouble (see Things to Avoid). Park in well-lit areas, and keep doors locked and windows closed while driving. Make sure you know where you’re going, or at least give that impression. Don’t go into uncertain neighborhoods at night.

If you follow the basic precautions, you’re unlikely even to come close to being mugged violently, but do watch out for less aggressive crime. Pickpockets work the crowds, so keep valuables tucked away.

Most area hospitals operate 24-hour emergency rooms, and there are a number of walk-in clinics. Look in the Yellow Pages under “Clinics.” You can find 24-hour pharmacies in most areas.

The sun is intense here, especially when near the reflective beach and water. Wear sunblock or at least sunscreen at all times, and a hat. Avoid heatstroke by drinking plenty of liquids and knowing when it’s time to head for shade.

Biting and stinging insects, including annoying mosquitoes, can be a real nuisance between June and November. Wear insect repellent, especially when striking out for the Everglades. Other nasty critters are sand flies, which bite in the evening, and fire ants.

Some areas along the Atlantic have rough surf or are subject to strong currents. Small children, in particular, might be better off in some of the more protected waters away from the ocean, especially the gentle Keys waters.

Stinging jellyfish, in particular the man-o-war, sometimes frequent the waters off the coast. Be careful of the ones washed up on the shore, too. Shark attacks are thankfully quite rare. Stingrays are generally gentle creatures, but be careful not to accidentally tread on one.

Hurricanes are infrequent but devastating. If one should occur, follow the announcements on TV and radio, or call the National Hurricane Center.

Even though you have only a slim chance of retrieving lost property, report all lost or stolen items to the police. Keep a copy of the police report to claim insurance later. Most credit card companies have toll-free numbers for reporting a loss, as do traveler’s check companies (see Travelers’ Checks). If you lose a passport, contact your embassy or consulate.