KENORA — It's that time of year again. Bears are coming out of their hibernation and will soon be visible in communities across the region. The City of Kenora cautioned its residents about bear sightings.
Should anyone see a bear on their property or in their neighbourhoods and it is a non-emergency encounter, residents are asked to call and report this by calling 1-866-514-2327. If the situation represents an emergency, they should call 911 or their local police.
The city also shared a link that will lead to more information about being “Bear Wise” and what to do if you encounter a bear: ontario.ca/bearwise
Non-emergency guidelines were outlined and included the following situations, related to specific bear sightings. Make a report if the bear:
- roams around or checks garbage cans
- breaks into a shed where garbage or food is stored
- is in a tree
- pulls down a bird feeder or knocks over a barbecue
- moves through a back yard or field but does not linger
If the situation represents an emergency, you should call 911 or your local police. Emergency situations would be such that the bear:
- enters a school yard when school is in session
- stalks people and lingers at the site
- enters or tries to enter a residence
- wanders into a public gathering
- kills livestock/pets and lingers at the site
According to Ontario Natural Resources and Forestry, Ontario’s Bear Wise reporting line received more than 5,692 calls.
