Photo Supplied by the Province of Ontario
If you’re using the Victoria Day long weekend to enjoy the outdoors, be sure to protect yourself in case of a bear encounter.
That’s the message from Ontario’s Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry, as they ask campers to be Bear Wise this summer.
Black bears are known to live in most parts of the province, including Renfrew County.
The ministry says to never approach or run away from a bear, and to keep your dog on a leash, as one could follow a loose pet back to your campsite.
Keep your eyes and ears open and stay aware of your surroundings while in the back country. The Ministry also suggests you make plenty of noise while you move through heavily wooded areas to give a bear the chance to avoid you.
While at your campsite, keep food in bear-resistant containers or packages and hang it at least four at least 4 metres above ground and 3 metres from tree limbs.
Enjoying the cottage this summer will hopefully not mean dealing with a bear, but the province is saying to be prepared just in case.
Before you return from your cottage this weekend, make sure to take care of known bear attractants like:
- open garbage bins,
- grease and food residue on barbecue grills,
- food scraps,
- pet food,
- and outdoor fridges.
All of these produce smells that are a sign of an easy meal for nearby animals, including bears.
If you do come face-to-face with a bear, do not run away. Remain calm and back up slowly. Keep the bear in your sight, but do not make direct eye contact. If it doesn’t leave on it’s own, waive your arms and make noise to drive it away.
Find more tips and a packing checklist of items that can help keep you safe from bears on the province of Ontario’s Website.
(written by Kasey Egan)