We love Massachusetts, but there are certain dangers that come with this beautiful territory. Between the weather, the people and the simple act of going outdoors, you’re bound to run into some sticky situations in this state. Here are some risks that Massachusetts residents just learn to live with.
1. Potholes
Rough winters, crazy drivers and a generally lackluster road repair schedule means that you may topple into a pothole once or twice around here. We generally know how to avoid them and memorize their location on our usual routes, but once in awhile you may find yourself tossed out of your seat by one of these pesky holes.
2. Deer ticks
Any Massachusetts native who grew up playing outside knows that deer ticks are a major threat. These little suckers can carry Lyme disease, which is a debilitating and sometimes deadly illness. If you're planning a woodland romp during tick season, wear light-colored clothing and be sure to check yourself thoroughly afterward.
3. Getting into a conversation about Deflategate.
You just don’t want to get into this discussion with a diehard Pats fan. Or, for that matter, with a die-hard Deflategate believer. The claws come out when this controversial topic gets brought up.
4. Mosquitoes
We might not have it as bad as some of the southern states, but mosquitoes are a real problem in Massachusetts. West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis ("Triple E") are the big threats around these parts. Both can lead to death, and both are borne by mosquitoes.
5. Dunkin Donuts might run out of your favorite munchkin flavor.
In the event of such a crisis, you may be left with a bunch of extra jelly-filled munchkins rolling around at the bottom of the box. It's basically a doughnut disaster.
6. Masshole drivers
Sometimes it feels like you're taking your life into your hands when you pull out onto a busy Massachusetts highway. Our drivers mean well, but turn signals can be few and far between depending on where you're traveling.
7. You might sprain your tongue figuring out how to pronounce our town names.
Worcester. Gloucester. Shrewsbury. Barnstable. Peabody. Leominster. Needham. And the dreaded Scituate. Massachusetts is the perfect storm of quirky-sounding English names and native derived names. Good luck.
8. A tsunami maybe?
According to a recent study by Boston College, New England may soon be tsunami territory due to an increase in seismic activity in the North Atlantic. Boston would be most at risk, which means that maybe upgrading to that flood insurance is a good call.
9. Winter
Massachusetts winters are no joke. If the snow doesn't get you, the freezing winds and horrifying driving conditions will make you tear your hair out. The only thing for it is to invest in a good snow shovel, some sturdy boots and gallons of hot chocolate.
10. Tourist season (a.k.a summer)
We love visitors, and it's always exciting to show travelers how wonderful our state is. Plus, many small business and restaurants depend on the money summer tourists bring with them. Still, if you live on the coast, warm weather means large crowds and crazy traffic.
These are just some of the dangers that you might face while living in Massachusetts. If you’re up for a bit of danger, check out the most terrifying places in the state.
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