With the arrival of spring, Alberta Forestry and Parks and Public Safety and Emergency Services are issuing a public safety advisory as bears begin emerging from hibernation across the province.
In a joint statement released Friday, officials remind Albertans that spring marks a high-risk period for human-bear encounters, as black and grizzly bears and their cubs emerge from dens in search of food.
“As bears return to the landscape, we ask everyone enjoying Alberta’s trails, parks and great outdoors to be alert and take the necessary steps to avoid conflicts. Bear safety is a shared responsibility, and simple precautions can help prevent serious encounters.” says Todd Loewen, Minister of Forestry and Parks.
Anyone spending time outdoors in bear country is urged to take the following precautions:
- Travel in groups and stay on official trails.
- Make noise regularly to avoid surprising a bear.
- Keep dogs on a leash at all times.
- Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
- Store food, garbage and other attractants in bear-resistant containers or facilities.
- Avoid areas with fresh signs of bear activity such as tracks, scat or diggings.
Backcountry users, hikers, campers and anglers should exercise increased caution around lakeshores, creeks, berry patches and areas with limited visibility. Bears often use these locations as travel routes and feeding areas, states the release.
Parks Canada reported earlier in the week that a trail cam captured an image of Grizzly 122, more commonly known as “The Boss”, who is regarded as possibly the largest bear in the Banff National Park area.
With the largest now awake and spotted on April 7 in the Lower Bow Valley, it’s time to be alert and aware every time you head into the woods, trials, or backcountry.
In the event of a bear encounter:
- Remain calm and do not run.
- Back away slowly while speaking in a calm, firm voice.
- If a bear approaches, prepare to use bear spray when within range.
Bear sightings or incidents in Kananaskis Country can be reported to Kananaskis Emergency Services at 403-591-7755.
If outside Kananaskis Country, Albertans are reminded that they can report any bear sightings or dangerous wildlife activity to Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Services by calling 1-800-642-3800.
And of course, please do not feed any bears.
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