As we monitor social media, we’ve seen a marked increase in the number of postings about bear sitings and, unfortunately, vehicle accidents. On September 9th, Spruce Glen Public School in Huntsville was placed under a hold and secure due to a bear in the schoolyard. Now North Bay Police is warning the public about an increase in bear sightings throughout the city.
While there have not been any reports of bears acting aggressively and there is no immediate threat, police are encouraging the public to be cautious and aware of their surroundings. They also recommend keeping dogs leashed in light of the increased number of bear sightings. Unleashed dogs engaging with a black bear can cause defensive bear attacks on the dog and its owner. A dog returning to its owner after engaging with a bear can cause a chase response in the bear. Check your yard before letting your dog out, and, if you do encounter a bear with your dog, remove yourself and your pet from the area as soon as you can safely do so.
Safety Tips
If you encounter a bear, remember to follow these safety tips provided by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry:
- Do not approach the bear.
- If the bear is in a tree, leave it alone and leave the area. The bear will come down when it feels safe.
- Slowly back away while keeping the bear in sight and wait for it to leave.
- Throw objects, wave your arms and make noise with a whistle, air horn or yelling if the bear does not leave.
- Only ever play dead if you are attacked by a mother bear defending her cubs.
- Get inside a building or vehicle, if possible.
- Drop any food you may be carrying and slowly move away.
Do not:
- Run, climb a tree or swim.
- Kneel down.
- Make direct eye contact.
- Approach the bear to get a better look.
- Attempt to feed a bear.
- Let your dog off its leash.
If a bear attacks:
- Fight back with everything you have.
- Do not play dead unless you are sure you are being attacked by a mother bear defending her cubs.
How to Report
Ontario’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry runs a 24/7 Bear Wise reporting line from April 1 to November 30. During these months, this is the best place to report a bear sighting. You can contact the Bear Wise reporting line at 1-866-514-2327. In an emergency or if you think the bear poses an immediate threat to people, call 911.
Click here to read our in-depth article about bear safety.
