Safety

While visiting St Croix

Welcome to the tropics! Forecast is sun! But be sure to cover up, wear a hat, and use reef-safe sunscreen to avoid sunburn. Showers can quickly pop up, so be sure to have an umbrella handy. Beware of hazardous surf conditions and crosscurrents, and do not swim alone.

There is much to see while visiting Christiansted and we want you enjoy your experience. The following are tips for a safe and enjoyable visit.

1. Drive on the LEFT!

2. Do not leave valuables unattended.

3. Do not climb on walls of historic ruins, and do not climb on the cannons. The walls can be unstable and bodily injuries may occur.

4. Drink plenty of water.

5. Use bug spray and reef-safe sunscreen.

6. Do not eat unknown fruits or touch unknown plants. Some plants, such as the Manchineel tree, are poisonous.
7. Please enjoy our crystal clear waters and spectacular coral reefs: go swimming, snorkeling, and SCUBA! Beware of hazardous surf conditions and crosscurrents, and do not swim alone.

 

Christmas Bush (Comocladia dodonaea), with leaves that resemble a holly, but is more like poison ivy. Avoid touching.

NPS photo.

Christmas Bush (Comocladia dodonaea) looks like holly, but like poison ivy it causes contact dermatitis. Stinging nettle is painful. There are several other trees, cactuses, and other plants bearing thorns or barbed hairs to avoid. Beware of centipedes, scorpions, biting spiders, and ants.