04/26/2026
Be bear aware!
Black Bears Active in the Area; Safety Reminder
The North Bay Police Service (NBPS) is advising residents to be Bear Wise as black bears emerge from hibernation and are being spotted on local trails and in neighbourhoods.
Residents are encouraged to review bear safety information and speak with children and youth who may be walking to and from school.
If a bear sees you:
• Do not approach the bear
• Slowly back away toward a school or house while keeping the bear in sight
• Do not turn and run
If a bear moves toward you:
• Slowly back away while making noise, do not run
• Remove and drop your backpack if it contains food
• Yell at the bear to go away
• Do not “play dead”
Bears are attracted to areas where food is easily available. Common attractants include:
• Garbage and recycling
• Cooking smells
• Ripe fruit and pet food left outdoors
If bears find food in a neighbourhood, they are likely to return and may attempt to enter buildings.
The best way to prevent conflict is to remove attractants.
Who to call if you see a bear:
• Emergency: 911
• Non-emergency (report bear sightings): 1-866-514-2327
• TTY: 705-945-7641
For more information and learning resources, visit:
https://www.ontario.ca/page/bear-wise-tips-and-tools
