The Arizona Game and Fish Department warns that interactions between mountain lions and humans is on the increase this year due to the prolonged drought and diminished prey base. They offer the following tips:

? Do not hike, jog, or ride mountain bikes alone in wild land areas, even those immediately adjacent to human population centers.

? Keep children close to you.

? Do not run from a mountain lion. Stand and face the animal. Make eye contact. If you have small children with you, pick them up so they do not panic and run.

? Do not crouch or bend over.

? Do all you can to appear larger. Raise your arms. Open your jacket if you are wearing one. Throw stones, branches or whatever you can reach without crouching or turning your back. Wave your arms slowly and speak firmly in a loud voice.

? Women should be especially cautious in the wilds during their menstruation cycle.

? Fight back if attacked. Since a mountain lion usually tries to bite the head or neck, try to remain standing and face the attacking animal. Game and Fish officials further explain that most mountain lion attacks can be attributed to a case of mistaken identity. The human involved is usually doing something that makes the mountain lion believe the person is normal prey. Black bears, which can also be brown, inhabit much of the Huachuca Mountains and are common on the Fort. They are generally not aggressive, but they are always to be considered potentially dangerous. Stay away from bears, keep your garbage cans clean, and do not leave food scraps around. This will help discourage them from foraging in and around your area.