Bears are increasingly venturing down from higher elevations into residential areas. The station posted safety guidance on social media in response to mounting reports.
Wildlife officials say the animals seek food, water and shade. Drought conditions, heat waves and recent wildfires drive bears into neighborhoods.
The sheriff’s advisory centers on eliminating attractants around homes. Residents should store garbage in bear-proof containers or locked garages until collection day. BBQ grills must be cleaned promptly after use.
Pet food should remain indoors. Fallen fruit needs removal from yards. Bird feeders and scented outdoor items can also draw bears.
Property security is critical. Large bears have been found using crawl spaces and under-house access points. Homeowners should block vents and similar openings.
Doors and windows must stay closed when not actively used. This prevents food odors from luring wildlife inside.
The station offered specific encounter protocols. Running can trigger a bear’s chase instinct. Instead, residents should remain calm and give the animal space.
Making noise by banging pots or shouting helps, the advisory said. But people should never block a bear’s escape route.
Getting between a mother and her cubs is especially dangerous. Witnesses should call 911 or the non-emergency line to report bear activity.
The advisory stresses neighborhood cooperation. Coordinated efforts to reduce attractants make entire areas less appealing to bears. Residents should discuss prevention strategies with neighbors.
Children and pets face heightened risk during evening and early morning hours. Bears are most active during these times.
Bears that grow accustomed to human food sources become serious nuisances. They also face increased danger themselves. Prevention remains the most effective strategy, according to local wildlife authorities.
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