Bears, Bears Everywhere Bears
Public Safety Reminder from NewsXR & Broome County Newswire
This year, bear sightings are not something happening somewhere else. We are seeing them right here in Broome County, in neighborhoods, near homes, along roads, and in places where people may not expect them.
Do not sleep on this one, because the bears obviously are not.
Black bears are usually not looking for trouble, but they are always looking for food. Garbage, bird feeders, pet food, grills, compost, and unsecured outdoor food sources can bring bears closer to homes and make them more comfortable around people.
If you see a bear, do not approach it, do not try to feed it, and do not try to get closer for photos. Stay calm, speak firmly, make yourself known, and slowly back away while giving the bear space. Keep children and pets close, and never get between a bear and its cubs.
Around the house, secure garbage and recycling, bring pet food indoors, clean grills after use, remove or limit bird feeders when bears are active, and make sure outdoor food sources are not inviting bears into your yard.
If a bear is simply passing through, let it move along. If a bear is acting aggressively, trying to enter a home, threatening people or pets, or creating an immediate danger, call 911. For ongoing bear problems or repeated sightings around homes, contact the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.
Broome County is bear country this year. Stay aware, secure the food sources, give bears room, and help keep people, pets, neighborhoods, and the bears themselves safe.
