February Is the Month You’re Least Likely to Get in a Fistfight

If you’ve been walking around getting attacked by strangers constantly, this is welcome news.

Statistically speaking, you’re less likely to get punched in the face in February than any other month of the year – and no, it’s not just because it’s the month with the fewest days.

Why we’re less punchy in February

A study of ER visits in the U.K. found that February is the month you’re least likely to eat a knuckle sandwich, and the main reason is… it’s just too cold to fight.

When it’s warm, more folks are out drinking, partying, and generally being morons. In February, it’s just too dark and cold, and everyone’s at home by 6 p.m. Basically, less mingling = fewer fists flying.

Shorter days make a difference too

We’re less likely to be out and about in February simply because it gets dark earlier in the day. (Assuming you’re in the northern hemisphere, that is.)

Sure, the sun sets earlier in November and December, but that’s the holidays… when you’re battling long lines to get that toy your kid must have. Too much time with extended family just has a way of stirring up that desire to fight anyone, over anything, at any time.

When are you most likely to get in a fistfight?

The study found fight-related injuries tend to peak between May and July. The pattern is clear: warm weather is just much more conducive to knock-down, drag-out fights.

So, watch your back come summer. That idiot you had words with at the bar or in the grocery store checkout lane? They will be waiting for you in the parking lot… as soon as they know they won’t freeze to death out there.