Escaping a Crocodile: Expert Tips on What to Do

Living in Florida means sunshine, humidity, waterways... and crocodiles. Knowing how to act if you encounter one can be a lifesaver. Miguel Assal, a Spanish rescuer famous for sharing first aid tips on social media, recently shed light on essential actions to take when facing these creatures.

In a viral video, Assal debunks a common myth: “If you're on land, run in a straight line, not zigzag. That's their top speed. They run between 11 and 15 kilometers per hour. They're not as slow as you might think.”

Assal, an emergency response expert, emphasizes the need for quick action if you're just a meter away from a crocodile, as they can move with incredible speed due to their hunting instincts.

However, if the encounter happens in water, the situation is drastically different: “There’s nothing you can do,” Assal warns. In their natural habitat, crocodiles can reach speeds of up to 40 km/h, a pace unmatched by even the fastest human swimmer.

Assal points out that around 1,000 people worldwide fall victim to fatal crocodile attacks annually, highlighting the importance of taking safety advice seriously.

Florida's Urban Crocodile Presence

Florida is one of the U.S. states with a significant presence of both crocodiles and alligators, especially in urban areas. Natural parks, lagoons, residential canals, and even backyards can become sites for encounters with these reptiles.

Therefore, it's crucial to keep a safe distance, refrain from feeding them, and notify authorities if they appear near homes.

Human Behavior and Crocodile Attacks

A recent study by the University of Florida found that nearly all alligator attacks in the state are prompted by human actions. The research, published in April, revealed that 96% of attacks since 1948 occurred in situations where people engaged in risky behaviors, such as swimming or wading in areas known for the presence of these reptiles, as reported by ClickOrlando.