The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation is offering safety tips as warmer weather enters the area, alligators become much more active.
With a growing number of people living in Florida, specifically near water, it's increasingly important to be reminded of safety, especially with alligators so close by.
FWC has a list of safety tips to follow:
- Be aware of the possibility of alligators when you are in or near any fresh or brackish water. Cats and dogs often resemble alligators' natural prey, so avoid walking pets near bodies of water and always keep them on a leash at least 10 feet from the water's edge.
- Swim only in designated swimming areas. Alligators are most active between dusk and dawn, so avoid swimming at night.
- Leave alligators alone. Handling even small alligators can cause injury.
If you encounter an alligator that you believe poses a threat to people, pets or property, FWC asks that you call the Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR.
DOWNLOAD the free NBC2 News app for your latest news and weather alerts.