GRAPE CREEK, TX — A local resident reported a possible mountain lion sighting Monday morning near Sutters Avenue in the Grape Creek community, the Grape Creek Volunteer Fire Department said.
The department announced the unconfirmed sighting in a social media post, stating that local authorities had been notified.
In the post, the department provided residents with 10 safety tips for mountain lion encounters:
- Stay aware of surroundings at all times, especially with children and dependents.
- If encountered, appear larger and more aggressive: open jacket, raise arms, throw stones or branches without turning away, wave arms slowly and speak firmly and loudly.
- Never run from or past a mountain lion, as it may trigger a chase; make eye contact and stand ground.
- Avoid bending over or crouching, which can resemble prey and expose vulnerable areas.
- Remain standing to protect head and neck; if attacked, fight back with rocks, tools, branches or bare hands without turning away.
- Never approach a mountain lion; most avoid humans and need space to leave.
- Supervise children outdoors, especially between dusk and dawn, and educate them about wildlife.
- Hike, backpack or camp in wild areas with a companion.
- Do not feed wildlife or leave food outside, as it can attract mountain lions by drawing prey.
- Keep pets secure, as roaming pets are easy prey.
The department also shared an educational graphic reinforcing key measures, including backing away slowly, standing tall, making noise, not running, picking up children without bending and fighting back if attacked.
Subscribe to the LIVE! Daily
Required
Post a comment to this article here: