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Teach children to stay calm, stand their ground, and make themselves look bigger by spreading their arms or opening a jacket. They should make loud noises to scare the mountain lion away. Encourage them to remain in groups and avoid running.
Preparation is Key
Teaching children to react in case of a mountain lion sighting starts with preparation. Before heading out on a hike or walk in mountain lion territory, discuss the risks and the plan with your child. Make sure they know what to do in case of an encounter and practice the steps with them. This will help build their confidence and preparedness.
Reacting to a Sighting
If your child spots a mountain lion, the first step is to remain calm. Encourage them to stand their ground and not run. This is crucial, as running can trigger the mountain lion’s hunting instinct. Instead, they should make themselves look bigger by spreading their arms or opening a jacket. This can help deter the mountain lion from approaching. Additionally, they should make loud noises, such as yelling or whistling, to scare the mountain lion away. If the mountain lion continues to approach, your child should try to intimidate it by making themselves appear as large and threatening as possible.
Group Safety
When hiking or walking with children, it’s essential to stay in groups and avoid hiking alone. This reduces the risk of a mountain lion encounter and provides an added layer of protection. Encourage your child to stay close to you and to be aware of their surroundings. By teaching your child to stay calm, stand their ground, and make themselves look bigger, you can help them stay safe in case of a mountain lion sighting.
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