Assume alligators are present
- Alligators can live in any water body within their range.
- Alligators are very good at hiding. They will see you before you see them.
- There could be alligators in places you have never seen them before, especially after storms or floods.
- The best way to stay safe around alligators is to keep your distance.
Never feed alligators
- Feeding alligators on purpose or by accident may cause alligators to associate people with food.
- Intentionally feeding alligators is irresponsible, illegal in most states, and dangerous for you and others.
- Feeding other wildlife near water can attract alligators and cause them to lose their natural fear of people.
Don’t dispose of fish or food scraps in water
- Throwing fish scraps in the water is one of the most common ways that people unintentionally feed alligators.
- Properly dispose of bait, fish scraps, and food items away from alligators and other wildlife.
Never harass, capture, or handle an alligator
- Attempting to approach, capture, or handle alligators increases your risk of injury or death.
- These behaviors are irresponsible, illegal, and dangerous, regardless of the alligator’s size.
- View and photograph alligators from a distance.
Be responsible for people and pets in your care
- Alligators do not know the difference between pets and their natural prey.
- Keep pets on a leash and away from the water’s edge.
- Supervise small children near water.
Maintain awareness anytime you are in or near water
- Always observe alligator warning signs.
- Stay away from the water if you see an alligator.
- Avoid swimming in areas with dense vegetation. Alligators hide in vegetation in and around the water.
- Only swim during daylight hours. Alligators are most active between dusk and dawn.
- During summer months, female alligators may protect nests and hatchlings from perceived threats, including people getting too close.
- If an alligator approaches you, immediately move a safe distance away. Report the situation to the appropriate authority in your state.