BEAR IN YOUR HOME

Bears spend a good portion of their time seeking out food sources. Bears that gain access to garbage and other attractants will then continue to spend more time in urban areas where unwanted human - bear encounters may occur such as a bear gaining entry to your home or business.

There are a few preventative measures you can use to deter a bear from entering a home or building:

• Follow guidelines for garbage and attractant management around your home and yard.

• Keep entryways free of shrubs and any overgrowth and consider using motion sensor lighting.

• Ideally keep doors and windows closed and locked.

• If a bear is persistent in trying to gain access to your home or establishment consider using one of the commercial products available such as the electric, “Unwelcome Mat,” but only if you have successfully eliminated all garbage and attractant issues first.

If a bear has entered your home or establishment:

• Back away slowly while repeating, “Hey bear,” in a calm voice

• Do not corner the bear. Give him/her a clear exit route. DO NOT lock the bear in a room. Leave the doors open as your leave the building.

• NEVER approach a bear.