Police issue safety tips after bear spotted in Erin

ERIN – A black bear was caught on camera checking out bird feeders and perusing the area of Pine Ridge Road in Erin on July 16.

According to Wellington OPP officials, a call came in around 9pm reporting the bear sighting.

"Except for a few bird feeders being knocked over, no other damage was reported to police," an OPP press release stated.

The province says bears entering populated areas aren't necessarily a threat to safety, but that can change if a bear becomes aggressive.

If dealing with a bear, the province recommends residents keeping their distance, keep food and pets indoors, and spread the word to neighbours.

Food or garbage sources attracting bears should also be removed.

If approached by a bear:

• don't run, but slowly back away while keeping an eye on the bear;
• make noise, throw rocks or sticks, make yourself appear as big as you can;
• carry something to make noise with such as a whistle or air horn;
• if a bear continues approaching, continue slowly backing away to create distance while acting aggressively;
• use a bear repellent if the bear is very close, or you're being attacked;
• do not play dead unless certain a mother bear is attacking you in defence of cubs; and
• in a last resort, fight back using whatever is around you.

For advice on dealing with bears, call the "Bear Wise" phone line at 1-866-514-2327 from April 1 to Nov. 3o.

If there is an immediate threat from a bear, call 911. For more information, visit ontario.ca/bearwise.