Northumberland OPP are asking residents in the Campbellford area to be on the lookout after a bear was spotted earlier this week.
Police received information a black bear had been sighted on County Road 50, just outside the town limits of Campbellford near Trentview Crescent.
The bear had been seen going through garbage and gardens in the area.
Residents are reminded to practice these safety tips to prevent bears from wandering onto their property:
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Put garbage out to the curb-side only on the morning of collection
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Put away bird feeders, seed, suet or anything else that may attract the bears
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Store garbage in waste containers with tight-fitting lids
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Clean outdoor grills after each use, including the grease trap underneath.
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Store other pet foods indoors
If You Encounter a Bear:
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Remain calm and avoid sudden movements.
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Give the bear plenty of room, allowing it to continue its activities undisturbed. If it changes its behavior, you’re too close so back away.
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If you see a bear but the bear does not see you, detour quickly and quietly.
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If a bear does spot you, it is best to let it know you are human, so talk in a normal voice and waive your arms while it is still further away.
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Never feed or throw food to a bear.
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If a bear pursues you, throw something on the ground, it may be distracted by this and allow you time to escape.
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If you are near a building or vehicle, get inside as a precaution.
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Remember that a standing bear is not always a sign of aggression. Many times bears will stand to get a better view.
The Northumberland OPP remind the public that bears are a wild animal and should be treated with caution, and respect. Generally, bears want to avoid humans, and most encounters are not aggressive and attacks are rare.
If you encounter a bear and your personal safety is threatened, you are urged to call police immediately by dialling 911.
For non-emergency encounters, call the toll-free Bear Wise reporting line at 1-866-514-2327 (TTY 705-945-7641).
