MIAMI -- Here are some tips to avoid dangerous confrontations with alligators, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Alligators over four feet in length that may pose a threat to people or property can be reported to 1-866-FWC-GATOR (or 392-4286) to seek a licensed trapper.

--Pay close attention to surroundings in any water body in Florida.

--Don't swim outside posted swimming areas and don't swim between dusk and dawn, when alligators are most active.

--Never allow small children or pets to play alone near water. Dogs are particularly susceptible to attack because they resemble alligators' natural prey.

--Don't harass or feed alligators. Fed alligators lose natural wariness of humans and learn to associate people with food. Don't throw fish scraps into water.

--Never remove an alligator from natural habitat or keep one as a pet. Both are illegal and alligators will never become tame.

--Watch and photograph alligators from a safe distance.

--If an alligator does attack, fight back and create as much noise and confusion as possible. Usually the alligator will realize it has attacked something it can't easily subdue and let go.