North Bay police remind residents to watch for bears

Black bear in northern Ontario (Supplied)

As black bears in northern Ontario emerge from hibernation, police in North Bay are reminding residents to take steps to keep themselves safe from the hungry bruins.

“The North Bay Police Service is advising residents to be ‘bear-wise' as black bears emerge from hibernation and are being spotted on local trails and in neighbourhoods,” police said.

“Residents are encouraged to review bear safety information and speak with children and youth who may be walking to and from school.”

If you encounter a bear, residents should not approach, but should slowly back away toward a school or house while keeping the bear in sight.

“Do not turn and run,” police said.

If a bear begins moving toward you, back away while making noise. If you are carrying food, drop it to the ground as you move away.

“Yell at the bear to go away,” police said.

“Do not play dead.”

Bears are attracted to areas where food is easily available, including garbage and recycling bins, areas with cooking smells, ripe fruit and pet food left outdoors.

“If bears find food in a neighbourhood, they are likely to return and may attempt to enter buildings,” police said.

“The best way to prevent conflict is to remove attractants.

In an emergency, call 911. For non-urgent bear sightings, call 1-866-514-2327 (TTY: 705-945-7641).

For more information and learning resources, click here.