Bears, Humans Encroaching Thursday, May 5, 2011

Here are some suggestions about safely coexisting with bears: If you live or camp in bear country: * Keep garbage in airtight containers inside your garage or storage area. Place garbage outside in the morning just before pickup, not the night before. Occasionally clean cans with ammonia or bleach. * Remove bird feeders. Bears see them as sweet treats, and often they will look for other food sources nearby. * Never put meat or sweet-smelling food scraps such as melon in your compost pile. * Don't leave pet food or food dishes outdoors at night. * Clean and store outdoor grills after use. Bears can smell sweet barbecue sauce and grease for miles. * Never intentionally feed bears to attract them for viewing. If you intentionally or unintentionally feed a bear and the bear becomes a nuisance, you could be cited and fined up to $500 -- and the bear eventually may have to be killed. * Keep your camp clean, and store food and garbage properly at all times. Use bear-proof containers when available. If not, suspend food, coolers and garbage from a tree at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet out from the tree trunk. * Keep your tent and sleeping bag free of all food smells. Store the clothes you wore while cooking or eating with your food. * Sleep a good distance from your cooking area or food storage site. * Store toiletries with your food. If you see a bear: * Stop, and back away slowly while facing the bear. Avoid direct eye contact, as the bear may consider that a threat ...



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X0fJJreTFsc&hl=en