Summer fun at the cottage or outdoors means staying Bear Wise.
Ontario’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry tells myFM that things like open garbage cans, food scraps, leftover pet food and greasy barbeque grills are natural bear and animal attractants.
Prevent your cottage from becoming a bear’s favourite picnic spot by removing garbage and disinfecting your waste bins to remove odours. The Ministry also says to clean your barbeque after each use, keep open food indoors and to always lock your doors and windows.
Food remains a notable topic if you’re ditching the cottage for a tent. The Ministry urges you to check the area around your campsite for signs of bear activity during your stay. Pack food in bear-resistant containers and hang them at least four metres off the ground and three metres from tree limbs. Never store, prepare or eat food inside your tent.
Whether camping or hiking, make sure your kids know not to approach or run from a bear and keep your dogs on a leash as a bear might follow a loose pet back to it’s owner. Making noise gives the bear a chance to avoid you before a face-to-face encounter. Talk or sing often, and carry a whistle or air-horn. Also consider bear spray as well as a long-handled axe.
If you encounter a bear, do not run away or make direct eye contact. Remain calm and keep it in your sight. If it doesn’t leave on it’s own, wave your arms and make noise to scare it off.
If you’re near a building, get inside as a precaution. Always call 911 in an emergency, but to report a bear sighting dial 1-866-514-2327.
Learn more and find packing lists for your cottage, campsite, or hike on the Province of Ontario’s website.
(written by Kasey Egan)
