Alligator sightings can happen anywhere there is water such as lakes, ponds and canals. The key to staying safe is being alert to the possibility of an alligator being present. Residents should not swim or wade in areas where alligators are likely to inhabit, especially at dusk or night when they naturally feed. Keep children and pets away from the water's edge. Alligators may confuse them for food. For more information about alligator encounters or to report a nuisance alligator, visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) at the link below.