Hawaii: Danger Zone

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September 1, 2010

People always picture Hawaii as a lush, tropical paradise. To our amusement, they couldn't be more wrong. The state has made a point of posting warnings saying how you could die if you take a wrong step. Some signs read like the warnings before roller coasters - this trail may not be suitable for people with heart conditions or for women who are pregnant. Others just say that if you do whatever it is they are advising against, it's your loss if the sea sucks you up. It really makes me wonder. Here are some signs we have seen so far:

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Photos

Volcanoes National Park
Caution: Volcanic fumes are hazardous to your health and may be life threatening.

Scenic Drive, Trail
Strong Current: You could be swept away from shore and drown.

Donkey Trail
Enter at your own risk, this trail is dangerous.

Volcanoes National Park
Hydrochloric acid and glass particles cause respiratory distress.

Laupahoehoe
Entering tsunami area (ie. you will be carried away)

Laupahoehoe
Leaving tsunami zone (ie. you are safe, for now)

Waipio Valley
Warning! Warning! Warning!

Wailea, Maui
Warning! x8

Waipio Valley
Health Hazard: Leptospirosis