Transportation agency warns commuters about cougars that were a little too close for comfort

Transit officials are warning the public after two cougars were spotted running along the SkyTrain tracks in Port Moody Friday morning.

According to the British Columbia Rapid Transit Company, two adult cougars were walking along the guideway into the Inlet station at about 4 a.m.

The cougars walked through the station towards the next train stop at Moody Centre.

If you do happen to come across a cougar officials say to stay calm and:

Keep the cougar in view and pick up children immediately. Children frighten easily and the noise and movements they make could provoke an attack.

Back away slowly, ensuring that the animal has a clear avenue of escape

Make yourself look as large as possible and keep the cougar in front of you at all times

Never run or turn your back on a cougar, sudden movement may provoke an attack

If a cougar shows interest or follows you, respond aggressively, maintain eye contact with the cougar, show your teeth and make loud noise. Arm yourself with rocks or sticks as weapons.

If a cougar attacks, fight back, convince the cougar you are a threat and not prey, use anything you can as a weapon.

Focus your attack on the cougar’s face and eyes.

Use rocks, sticks, bear spray or personal belongings as weapons. You are trying to convince the cougar that you are a threat, and are not prey.