CJOB News Team reporting
8/17/2012
Manitoba Conservation is reminding people in cottage and camping country to be careful - black bears are becoming more active and more visible this time of year as they prepare for hiberation.
Be sure to seal anything with a scent that may attract a bear, like garbage. When hiking, keep pets on a leash, walk with other people and carry a noisemaker or bear spray.
While bear spray is an excellent deterrant, do not spray it on lawns or structures like tents or clothing as a repellent, as it might actually attract bears.
If a bear is encountered, do not run. Assess the situation. In most cases, the bear will move away from you.
Other reminders from Manitoba Conservation:
* never approach or feed a bear;
* because pets can attract bears, keep them on a leash or under control and do not let them run toward a bear;
* if possible, walk with other people;
* carry a noisemaker or bear spray repellent and know how to use it;
* feed pets indoors and keep their food dishes indoors;
* do not set up bird feeders between April and November;
* do not burn garbage;
* double bag garbage and place it in a bear-resistant container, secured building or fenced area being sure to seal it in a way that will not allow odours to escape; if a container can be pried open with a crow bar, it's not bear proof;
* clean garbage containers regularly with bleach or ammonia to stop odours;
* take garbage with you when leaving your home or cottage, or ask a neighbour to put it out just prior to pickup;
* put garbage bags in the container just before garbage pickup, not the night before or exercise the option in some circumstances to freeze garbage in bags until pickup;
* do not compost any food items outdoors;
* clean and store barbecues after each use; and
* remove all ripened or fallen fruit in the morning and before dusk.
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