I’ve lived in Florida my entire life and have spent plenty of time in and around alligator infested waters. Below are my tips for avoiding an unwelcome encounter:
1.) Assume there is an alligator in the water.
They live pretty much everywhere. We have a small retention pond in our backyard. 90% of the time it is alligator-free, but since that 10% exists we have to keep an eye on it. Don’t think that big gators only live in big rivers. My husband once saw a 14-foot gator swimming in the Little Econlockhatchee. We’ve even seen gators swimming in salt water!
2.) There’s a saying in Florida…
If you see one gator there are 10 more lurking right below the surface. I have no idea if there is any scientific proof to this saying, but it seems like a good rule to live by.
3.) Do not be afraid.
It is a good idea to be cautious and respectful of alligators. It is a bad idea to panic and make a big scene. If you are near the water and you see an alligator your best bet is to slowly walk away. If you are in the water and you see a gator do not splash or act distressed. Typically, they are more afraid of you than you are of them.
4.) Stay away from the grassy parts.
Every Floridian knows alligators nest in the grassy part of the water. Lilly pads, thick algae and debris make great cover. The water is usually full of tannins in those areas too which makes it difficult to see below the surface.
5.) Don’t go in if you’re not confident
I’ve been swimming in Florida waterways my entire life. I always weigh the risk before getting into the water. If its gator mating season or if I’m in a stretch of river known to be the home of an aggressive gator, I will not step foot in the water.
6.) Do not swim at night
I would never swim or walk along the edge of a Florida waterway at night. (See number one if you are confused as to why.)
mamabeargreen 
Thank you for the info. Your son Konnor will grow up very enriched on his home state, and the great outdoors..
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We don’t have alligators over here but lots of crocs! But not where I live. These are all great points, especially the keep calm part. I imagine it is quite natural to panic. It is important for people to be educated about this stuff when the news projects things a certain way. 🙂
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Great post! We moved to Florida two years ago and have seen plenty of alligators since. I love alligators and respect them; therefore, I would never risk myself or the alligators by going into water I can’t see into (especially at night). It is their habitat afterall.
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Such good info! I have family who lived in Florida and there was an alligator that lived in the manmade pond behind their house. We all stayed away from it!
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