Redlands residents warned after 2 mountain lions reported

Residents and hikers in Redlands have been put on notice after two mountain lion sightings were reported recently in the city’s canyon areas.

The last reported sighting occurred about 9 p.m. Saturday on Sunset Hills Lane near Horse Trail Drive, which is in a neighborhood that abuts hills in the San Bernardino County community. A similar sighting was reported in the same area last week.

While hundreds of mountain lion sightings are reported annually in California, attacks are few and fatalities rare. There have been 14 verified mountain lion attacks on humans in the state since 1986, and only three were fatal. The last fatal attacked occurred in Orange County in 2004.

The state Department of Fish and Wildlife advises anyone who encounters a mountain lion to keep their distance; attempt to appear larger and wave their arms slowly; speak in a firm, loud voice; and not to crouch, bend over or run.

In most instances, officials say, mountain lions will try to avoid a confrontation with humans and seek a way to escape.

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Twitter: @cmaiduc

christine.maiduc@latimes.com