On May13, at 2:48pm Dufferin OPP received a report of bear sightings after a resident saw a Mother bear and her two cubs on a farm on 11th Line of East Garafraxa in Dufferin County.
There are a variety of available options to reduce the likelihood of bears being attracted by household garbage and other domestic waste, OPP warn.
These strategies have been adopted by various Ontario communities, either on a voluntary or mandatory basis.
Best Practices for Waste Management can include:
– Restricting curb-side placement of garbage and recycling to the morning of pick-up;
– Considering the use of community bear-resistant curb-side garbage collection in areas which are prone to bear problems;
– Promoting the use of bear resistant waste containers by residents in areas prone to bear problems; and
– Promoting or requiring the use of bear resistant dumpsters by commercial businesses which produce food waste.
If you encounter a bear:
– Remain calm and avoid sudden movements;
– Give the bear plenty of room, allowing it to continue its activities undisturbed. If it changes its behaviour, you’re too close so back away;
– If you see a bear but the bear doesn’t see you, detour quickly and quietly;
– If a bear spots you, try to get its attention while it is still farther away. You want it to know you’re human so talk in a normal voice and waive your arms;
– Remember that a standing bear is not always a sign of aggression. Many times, bears will stand to get a better view;
– Throw something onto the ground (like your camera) if the bear pursues you, as it may be distracted by this and allow you to escape; and
– Never feed or throw food to a bear.
