Bears are out from hibernation — and they are hungry.
With so many people headed out to do some camping over the May long weekend, the Ministry of Natural Resources wants to make sure a few simple guidelines are followed to keep everyone safe.
Spokesperson Doran Ritchie says bears are opportunistic feeders, so we should take away things that make it easy for them to get at food.
He says to keep garbage stored in a bear-proof container, and keep it inside until the day your scheduled garbage pick-up day.
Ritchie adds to put away bird feeders for the summer and not to throw away fish, meat or sweet foods in the composter.
You should also clean your barbecues of food residue immediately after use.
If you do happen to come in contact with a bear, don’t run.
Ritchie says to stand your ground, maintain eye-contact, and slowly back away from the bear.
He says if possible, make a lot of noise by banging pots and pans or setting off your car alarm, or take a whistle camping with you.
You should then report the bear sighting to the MNR’s Bear Reporting Line at 1-866-514-2327.
If you’re in immediate danger call 9-1-1.
