A public safety advisory has been issued for Kananaskis and other areas in Alberta as bears begin to wake up from hibernation.
Bear activity increases in spring and summer, and people visiting the outdoors should take precautions, the Province said in the advisory issued on April 11.
Simple precautions can help prevent serious encounters with bears, Parks Minister Todd Loewen said.
“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,” Loewen said.
Spring is a high-risk period for bear encounters as bears and their cubs emerge from their dens looking for food.
There can be fewer natural food sources early in the season, prompting bears to venture closer to trails, roads, campsites or residential areas, the Province said.
Attractants for grizzly or black bears include pet food, garbage compost, bird seed and fruit plants.
“We urge all Albertans to respect wildlife and follow safety guidelines to ensure both human and bear safety during this active season,” Public Safety Minster Mike Ellis said.
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.
People in outdoor areas or the backcountry should use increased caution around lakeshores, creeks, berry patches or areas with limited visibility.
In the event of a bear encounter, remain calm and do not run, the Province said.
Back away slowly while speaking in a calm, firm voice and prepare to use bear spray if a bear approaches.
Bear sightings or incidents in Kananaskis Country can be reported to Kananaskis Emergency Services at 403-591-7755.
Outside of Kananaskis, bear sightings or dangerous wildlife activity can be reported to Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Services at 1-800-642-3800.
