Alligator safety is important for anyone living in alligator country like South Carolina. The Pee Dee is prime alligator territory so it’s essential to understand how to avoid an encounter with an alligator and what to do if you can’t escape an incident with one of these wild critters. The largest alligator documented in South Carolina was over 13 feet long and nearly 1,000 pounds. Even smaller alligators can cause serious damage to you or your pet. Here are the alligator safety tips you need to know:

1. Stay away from alligators –

Alligators are wild animals and can be dangerous. It is best to stay away from them. If you see one, admire it from a safe distance.

2. Do not feed alligators –

Feeding alligators makes them associate people with food and increases the chances of an attack.

3. Be careful around water –

Alligators often live in or near water, so it is important to be careful when swimming, wading, or fishing in areas where they may be present. Also keep your pets away from the water’s edge when you are outdoors. Alligators have been known to snatch pets from the edge of ponds, rivers and other bodies of water.

4. Pay attention to alligator warning signs –

If you see a sign warning of alligators, take it seriously and stay away from the area.

5. Never try to capture or kill an alligator –

This is illegal in many states and is extremely dangerous. Leave alligators alone. If you have a nuisance alligator on your land, call Pee Dee Wildlife Control for proper and safe removal of the animal.

6. Know what to do if you are attacked by an alligator –

If you are attacked by an alligator, fight back! Try to hit the alligator in the eyes or nose, and kick or punch it as hard as you can. Whatever you do, do not let the alligator pull you underwater. They drown their prey by rolling over on them and holding them underwater.

Alligators might be a part of life here in the south, but you should never be complacent when you spot one or encounter one. Alligators are fierce predators that can and will attack humans and pets. Keep yourself and your pets safe by reporting nuisance alligators to Pee Dee Wildlife Control!