5 Dangerous Places in the US You Should Take Your Kids
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Photo: Kevin Dooley/Creative Commons
If it was possible, I would prevent my children from ever encountering danger. I'd keep them safe forever and ever, and keep my heart safe in the process. Unfortunately, not even the most vigilant parent can completely eliminate the danger that is inherent in living, so the next best thing might be to teach how kids how to handle risky situations when they inevitably pop up.
As with many of life's lessons, travel is a great tool for teaching kids how to assess and diminish danger - and maybe even have a good time in the process. These travel destinations may be hazardous, but that's no reason not to take the kids.
1. Grand Canyon, Arizona
Photos: Britt Reints
People die here. In fact, very big books are filled with stories of the multitude of ways people have died while attempting to explore the Grand Canyon. And we're not just talking explorers from long ago; the National Parks Service estimates they rescue 250 people from the canyon each year. What a great place for a family vacation!
Yes, the Grand Canyon can be dangerous, especially if you don't pay heed the safety warnings and underestimate your body's need for food, water, and rest. However, a trip to the canyon is a perfect opportunity to teach kids about hiking safety, respecting the environment, and listening to their bodies during physical activity.
2. New Smyrna Beach, Florida
Statisticians say this small beach town on Florida's Atlantic coast is the shark bite capitol of the world. Year after year, lifeguards here report more shark bites than on any other beach in the world. What more motivation do you need to grab your suits and hit the water?
The good news is that deaths from shark bites are practically unheard of here. Doesn't sound comforting? Both swimmers and beach officials in the area are trained and experienced in dealing with shark bites, which makes this beach potentially safer than one in a remote part of the world where bites are rare but still possible. The reality is that a shark bite is more likely to result in a small scar than a lost limb (or life), and being able to put sensationalist titles and headlines into perspective can be a valuable life skill.
(And really? The odds of you or your kids even seeing a shark on this beautiful beach are very, very slim.)
3. Memphis, Tennessee
Last year, Forbes ranked Memphis as one of America's most dangerous cities, largely due to a high rate of violent crimes. A rise in poverty in the city is considered a factor in climbing crime rates.
Why take your kids to a city known for violent crime? Memphis has a rich musical and civil rights history that is best appreciated by being experienced. Visitors to the city may notice a large police presence in areas popular with tourists and the downtown area, and the occasional panhandler, but that's about the only visible sign of the city's struggles that are evident outside of the residential areas.
4. Washington, DC
According to a study done by AllState insurance, you're more likely to get in a car accident in DC than in any other city in the country. You're also three times more likely to be the victim of a violent crime, although crime rates have dropped in the last decade. It's no wonder schools around the nation are constantly packing school buses with students bound for the capitol city!
Before you send an angry letter to your child's school, remember that DC is also home to one of the greatest collection of museums in the world. Odds are your child will encounter more learning opportunities than criminals should their class or your family visit. That being said, a trip to Washington, D.C. does present a good excuse to talk to kids about how to stay safe in big cities, a conversation you'll want to have before they head off to college alone.
5. San Francisco, California
Photo: Kevin Cole/Creative Commons
It's not criminals or bad drivers you have to watch out for in the Bay Area, it's the earthquake that could bring your hotel crumbling down around your ears. With the threat of a major earthquake ever present, San Francisco is considered one of the most disaster-prone cities in the country.
But assuming you don't mind a little earth shaking (and really? What are the odds the Big One hits on your vacation?), you'll find tons of things to see and do in San Francisco, including world-famous aquariums and museums. There's also some of the best eats in the country, so at least you can rest assured that your last meal would be delicious.
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