Watch Out, Moose On The Loose In Simsbury: Police

SIMSBURY, CT — A moose is on the loose in Simsbury and local police are issuing warnings about the potential safety hazards of these gigantic mammals.

According to the Simsbury Police Department, the town has had some calls in to police reporting sightings in recent weeks and days.

The advice for folks spotting one of these creatures is easy ... leave it alone, according to police.

"While moose are usually docil creatures, they can be dangerous when they feel threatened," police said in a statement. "They have the potentential to weigh over 1,000 pounds and have the ability to charge at you at speeds up to 40 miles per hour, which can cause significant injury or death."

As a result, police offered a few tips folks should do if they see a moose on the loose while outside:

• Don't be loud or aggressive, don't make the moose view you as a threat.

• Keep your distance.

• Unlike bears, moose won't chase you if you run, so this is an option if one gets too close.

• Should a moose charge at you, try and get behind a tree or inside a vehicle/building.

Police said those who see moose in Simsbury should call the Simsbury Police Department's dispatch line at 860-658-3100 and/or the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Wildlife Division at 860-424-3011.

For more information on mooses in Connecticut, click on this link.