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Staying Safe in Bear Country – Do You Know What to Do?

Released on July 14, 2014

The Government of Saskatchewan is reminding residents to be mindful of bears when enjoying the outdoors this summer.

Saskatchewan has a healthy bear population and it is not unusual to see bears in the wild at this time of year.

Bears have been known to wander through campgrounds, so proper food storage, cooking methods, and garbage handling are essential for safe camping.

Residents are also being reminded to never feed or approach a bear.
  
“There have been a few encounters this year and we want to ensure residents are taking the necessary precautions when they are out enjoying our parks, campgrounds and natural areas,” Director of Compliance and Field Services with the Ministry of Environment Kevin Callele said.  “Generally bears are attracted by food and if they cannot find food they will often leave the area.  Bears that have been fed lose their natural fear for humans.  When bears start to associate food with humans, they become a nuisance, and potentially dangerous.”

The following are safety precautions to help stay safe in bear country:

Encounters: 
  • Never feed or approach a bear or bear cubs.
  • If you encounter a bear, calmly back away, speak in low tones, and do not look directly at the bear.
  • Do not run – you can’t outrun a bear.
  • Move toward a large structure like a tree or a rock.
  • As a last resort, drop bags/backpacks - it may distract the bear.
  • In most cases black bears will threaten but not attack.  If attacked, defend yourself – do not ‘play dead’.
In a campground:
  • Never cook or eat in your tent.
  • Store food in air-tight containers in the trunk of your vehicle, not in tents or tent-trailers.
  • Don’t leave garbage, scraps, or pet food lying around.  Place all garbage in the containers provided; do not burn or bury scraps.
  • Clean fish only at designated fish-cleaning stations.
  • Keep your pet on a leash or inside your vehicle.  An unleashed dog may aggravate a bear.
  • Use a flashlight at night; do not move about the campsite at night unless necessary.
Anyone who finds themselves in a potentially dangerous situation with a bear should contact their local conservation officer or call the T.I.P. line at-1-800-667-7561 or from your cell at #5555 (24 hours a day).

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For more information, contact:

Jamie Gibson
Environment
Regina
Phone: 306-798-3900

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