POLISCOPE
Back to feed
NewsMySuncoast / WWSB (ABC Sarasota)August 26, 2026Sarasota County

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission issues alligator safety and reporting guidelines

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is providing safety protocols for residents and visitors regarding alligator encounters. The guidance outlines how to coexist with alligators and specifies the conditions under which the public should contact the agency.

wildlifepublic safetyalligators
Read the full story at MySuncoast / WWSB (ABC Sarasota)

Why It Matters

Residents and visitors are provided with official safety procedures to follow when encountering alligators in residential areas or public spaces.

Key Facts

  • The FWC provides official safety tips for coexisting with alligators.
  • The FWC outlines specific criteria for when residents should contact the agency regarding alligator sightings.
  • The guidance applies to both residents and visitors throughout Florida.
  • The agency is responding to an increase in alligator encounters reported in the media.

Who's Mentioned

locationFlorida“The geographic area where alligator encounters are occurring.”personBradley Johnson“Public information officer for the FWC.”organizationWWSB“News outlet reporting the information.”other67“Number of Florida counties where alligators are found.”other911“Emergency services number for alligator-related incidents.”organizationFlorida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission“State agency responsible for wildlife management and alligator safety.”other866-FWC-GATOR“Nuisance Alligator Hotline number.”