Sask. residents reminded to take precautions as black bears emerge from hibernation

Those in Saskatchewan are advised to follow precautions as black bears emerge from hibernation. (Photo source: Government of Saskatchewan)

The province is reminding Saskatchewan residents to take precautions this spring as black bears emerge from hibernation.

As the bears will be spending much of their time looking for food to replenish body fat lost over the winter, they will be likely to seek out easy food sources near homes and campsites.

Black bears can be found across the province, including northern forested areas, as well as central and southern regions, including the Aspen Parkland, Touchwood Hills, Qu’Appelle Valley and the South Saskatchewan River Valley.

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To stay ‘bear aware,’ those in Saskatchewan are advised to limit anything that would attract bears, including:

• Securing garbage in a building or use bear-resistant containers
• Putting garbage out only on collection day, keeping bins clean and odour-free
• Storing pet food indoors and removing bird feeders
• Avoiding placing meat, fish, fats, oils, or other strong smelling food waste in compost
• Cleaning barbeques thoroughly after use and placing them in a secure area
• Keeping food out of tents and storing it in sealed containers inside a vehicle when camping
• Disposing of all garbage in designated containers
• Using designated locations for cleaning fish and properly discarding remains
• Keeping pets leashed when walking within bear habitats

The province says the recommendations are in place to help minimize the likelihood of dangerous encounters.

If a bear or other wildlife presents an immediate threat to public safety, residents are asked to call 911.

More information can be found here.