Danger Zone!

According to NeighborhoodScout.com, Fort Myers is the 38th most-dangerous city (per capita) in the United States, with a 1 in 81 percent chance of being a victim of some kind of violent crime.

So what does that mean?

Well, for starters, it matters WHERE you are in Fort Myers. Quite a lot. Nobody lives in “Fort Myers,” they live in neighborhoods in Fort Myers, and the chances of you being a victim of a violent crime can vary widely, depending on where you live. Pro tip: If you’re thinking about cruising down Fowler Avenue at 11pm on a Friday night, DON’T.

Secondly, your family and friends can make a big difference in your risk of violent crime. My days of going out drinking at night are over, and my family comes from a long line of churchgoers and Bible teachers. There are a few bad apples in the basket (more on that at a later date) but the fact is, I don’t need to worry that much about someone I know doing me harm.

Or at least, I hope that’s that case.

Thirdly, your behavior affects this quite a deal. John Farnam is famous for saying “Don’t go to stupid places to do stupid things with stupid people,” and that’s a great rule of thumb to follow. When I lived in Phoenix, I knew the best authentic Mexican food was to be found out on the west side around 57th Ave and Bethany Home. But did I make a taco run out there at 2 am on a Saturday night? Heck no!

We all want to live a full and enriching life. Relax and enjoy your time here on Earth, but don’t take any more stupid chances than you absolutely have to.