NEWS RELEASE
SOUTH SIMCOE POLICE SERVICE
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South Simcoe Police Service would like to make the public aware of recent bear sightings in Innisfil and Bradford. Bear sightings are a yearly occurrence and there is no cause for panic. We urge you to use caution and don't approach a bear if you see one.
The Ministry of Natural Resources has these instructions to minimize the chances of attracting bears:
- Store garbage in waste containers with tight-fitting lids.
- Put out garbage only on the morning of pickup.
- Put away bird feeders. Seed, suet and nectar attract bears.
- Pick fruits and berries as they ripen. Don't let them rot on the ground.
- Clean outdoor barbecue grills after each use, including the grease trap underneath. Bears will be drawn by smells from great distances, including grease and food residue on grills.
- Keep dogs on a leash when out walking.
If a bear is posing an immediate threat to public safety by exhibiting threatening or aggressive behaviour, call 911. Police may request support from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry to respond to emergency situations, on a case-by-case basis.
For non-emergencies, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry operates the toll-free, 24/7 Bear Wise Reporting Line (1-866-514-2327) and the Bear Wise website to provide the public with information.
For further information visit http://www.natureindeed.com/PDFs/Nuisance_Bears_MNR.pdf
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