Tips For Avoiding Alligator Attacks

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.