No state is without its dangers, and the Peace Garden State is no exception (despite the pleasant nickname). There are some things you need to be aware of that definitely pose safety and health risks, from extreme weather to the most dangerous animals in North Dakota. (It’s true: One of our greatest gifts – North Dakota wildlife – is also among the biggest risks of living in the Peace Garden State.) Here are 10 of the scariest things in North Dakota that can kill you.

1. North Dakota has topped the ranks as one of the most dangerous states to work in.
Lindsey G/Flickr
A lot of this is due in part to oil field-related work accidents. Though safety precautions are taken and have been strengthened over the past few years, they still do happen and more than in any other state.
2. Extremely low temps and windchills can be very dangerous if exposed to them for too long.
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When a wind-chill advisory is issued, it should be taken seriously (and these historic winter storms in North Dakota prove it). With temps that can drop to 50 below zero, it is certainly a large risk, especially if you don't have adequate protection against the cold. This goes for pets as well. If it's below freezing, make sure your dogs and cats have a place to keep warm.
3. Western Black Widow spiders can be found in North Dakota.
Wikimedia
It is one of the only poisonous spiders in North Dakota. This spider's venom can be fatal if not treated right away. The blood-red hourglass makes it easily distinguishable. If you see one of these, do not mess with it. And if you get bitten, definitely seek medical help immediately.
4. There is also one type of venomous snake found in North Dakota, the Prairie Rattlesnake.
Wikimedia
These are found primarily in the western half of the state. They have the appearance of most rattlesnakes - loud tail and all - and are primarily non-aggressive but will strike if they feel threatened. They like to hide in tall grasses, so be careful if you are out hiking or walking in places with lots of brush where they tend to hide.
5. Flooding causes millions of dollars in damage and poses a life threat to those in the area.
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Though it doesn't happen every year, it does happen after a lot of winters in the eastern half of the state. Flood waters can be devastating under the right conditions - just take a look at the record-breaking flood of 1997 in North Dakota.

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6. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in North Dakota.
Dave Dugdale/Flickr
Fried foods can be a leading contributor to heart disease and there are plenty of delicious fried foods in North Dakota to enjoy. Just be sure to enjoy in moderation - bacon is great but you shouldn't necessarily eat heaps of it every single day.
7. North Dakota is ranked as the state with the highest amount of binge drinking.
Emma Tinson/Flickr
Binge drinking can result in many different kinds of alcohol-related deaths, and unfortunately, North Dakota ranks the worst in that area according to the United Health Federation and other studies. The public can also be put at risk by someone's binge drinking, such as through drunk driving accidents.
8. Tornadoes are common in mid to late summer all over the state.
Wikimedia
Late summer storms can be unpredictable here. Tornadoes can occur all over the state and cause devastation wherever they go. There have been some very strong tornadoes recorded here before (i.e. the 1957 Fargo tornado). Proper shelter for tornadoes, especially if you live outside of town in a rural area, is essential.
9. Bison can actually get pretty aggressive if provoked and sometimes charge people and cars.
cliving/Flickr
North Dakota embraces bison in many aspects but when they are free roaming you should keep your distance. A bull will not hesitate to charge you or your car if they feel you've gotten too close. If you've ever been around bison you know that they certainly aren't small and fragile and can put a pretty good dent in your car or knock you to the ground with ease. Of course, there are places where you can safely watch the majestic creatures, such as Theodore Roosevelt National Park - but even in the park, people have been injured by bison.

To get a feel for the size of the giant mammals, check out this YouTube video from The Path Beyond:

10. Deer also seem to gravitate towards roads, only they won't attack your car - they'll just walk in front of it at the worst moment.
Aaron Morton/Flickr
A lot of times this can cause quite a bit more damage to the car than you think a deer could. This can result in a lot more issues if a driver abruptly swerves or breaks to try and avoid a deer while there are other cars around them. Deer are constantly crossing the roads here - just assume every single road is marked as deer crossing and keep an eye out.

From the dangerous animals in North Dakota to the inclement weather, life in the Peace Garden State isn’t all rainbows and butterflies. It always helps to be prepared with a proper first aid kit. Of course, the good definitely outweighs the bad. Any other dangers people should be aware of that weren’t included on the list? Tell us.

Don’t let the above list give you the wrong idea. North Dakota wildlife isn’t something to be feared. It’s something to be marveled over – and the Dakota Zoo in Bismarck is the perfect place to do just that.

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