Police and the Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment are advising Prince Albert residents of a confirmed cougar sighting in the city.
The animal was spotted at around 8:30 a.m. CT on Wednesday in the area of 15th Street North West. The cougar was last seen heading north away from Prince Albert into a forested area.
Officials said the cougar may still be in close vicinity of the city.
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The ministry is reminding people that although chances of seeing a cougar are slim, they need to be aware of the animal’s existence in the area and practice caution.
If someone encounters a cougar, they should not run. People are encouraged to stand up, make themselves look big, shout loudly and throw something to distract the animal. They should back away to a safe distance while maintaining eye contact.
Any person that comes in contact with the animal should fight back and never play dead. After the animal has left, people should keep watching it until they reach safety.
Anyone who encounters a cougar in the city is asked to contact Prince Albert police at 306-953-4222 or 911. Outside city limits, people can call their local RCMP detachment or the Ministry of Environment office TIP line at 1-800-667-7561.