Cougar Safety Tips
- NEVER APPROACH A COUGAR!
- Don’t Jog, Hike or Walk by Yourself.
- Don’t Jog, Hike or Walk at Dawn or Dusk.
- Keep Children within Arms Reach when Hiking. Don’t Allow Children to run ahead on a trail.
- Carry a Sturdy Walking Stick, Bear Spray and/or Air Horn.
If you encounter a cougar:
- STOP… STAY CALM
- DO NOT RUN!
- Face the Cougar and Stand Tall
- Immediately Pick Up Children and Calm Them
- Open Jacket Or Lift a Backpack over Head to Appear Larger
- Back Slowly Away
- If Cougar Approaches - Throw Rocks, Sticks and Speak loudly
- If Cougar Attacks - Fight Back!
If you live in the mountains and have seen cougars nearby, take extra precautions:
- While Playing Outside, Stay with Your Children at all times
- For very small children, build a play area outside that is enclosed on all sides and top by steel mesh
- For small pets, build a run that is enclosed on all sides, including top by steel mesh or watch closely
- Cougars usually don't consider humans prey. They hunt small mammals, birds, deer and elk. The cougar is a carnivore - use common sense when living in cougar country to protect yourself and this magnificent cat.