Time for caution: black bears are coming out of hibernation

OPP is reminding you to take precautions to prevent black bears from visiting your neighbourhood.

With the mild winter coming to an end, it means black bears are coming out of hibernation, and human-bear interactions are likely to happen.

Here are some ways to reduce the possibility of being visited by bears on or around your property:

• Place garbage in waste containers, with tight-fitting, locking lids
• Put your garbage out only on the morning of collection, not the night before
• Wash garbage containers and dumpsters frequently and use disinfectant to reduce odors
• Fill bird feeders during the winter months only, when bears are hibernating
• Keep your barbecue grills and picnic tables clean and remove grease catchers after each use
• Keep your pet's food indoors

If you encounter a bear:

• Allow the bear an escape route, do not try and trap it or play with it. They are wild animals
• If you are close to a bear, back slowly and hold your hands or jacket over your head to look as big as possible
• If you find a treed bear, let it be

The Ministry of Natural Resources operates a toll-free Bear Wise reporting line (1-866-514-2327), and it provides the public with information and best practices to remove attractants from your property.

Remember, a bear that enters a populated area isn't necessarily a threat, however, call 911 or your local police department, if a bear starts posing an immediate threat to public safety by exhibiting threatening or aggressive behaviour.