The Bears are Awake

Conservation Officer Steve Petrovic wants to once again remind us that the bears are awake and hungry after a long Winter.  I think by now we all know what we should and shouldn’t do, but Officer Petrovic is especially suggesting not to put our garbage out on Wednesday until the last minute we possible can.

If you do by chance encounter a bear, know what to do and teach your family members what to do:

Do not feed bears. It’s against the law to feed dangerous wildlife.

Remain calm. Do not run or climb a tree. Slowly back away, talking to the bear in a quiet, monotone voice. Do not scream, turn your back on the bear, kneel down or make direct eye contact.

Keep away from the bear. Do not try to get closer to it. If the bear gets too close, use pepper spray (within 7 metres) or something else to threaten or distract it.

Stay together. If you are with others, act as a group. Keep children close – pick up and carry small children.

Go indoors. Bring pets indoors if possible.

Watch the bear until it leaves. Make sure the bear has a clear escape route. After the bear is gone and it’s safe, make sure there is nothing in the area that will attract bears back again.

For detailed information on how we can manage bear behaviours and help keep them out of trouble (and out of town) please visit Managing Bear Conflicts.

Contact the Conservation Officer Service at 1-877-952-7277 (RAPP) if a bear poses an immediate threat or danger to public safety.