If you're getting ready for a camping trip, there may be one thing you're forgetting – brushing up on your bear safety.
On Sunday at Point Farms Provincial Park north of Goderich, OPP were called to a suspected black bear right in the center of the park.
Park employees, who believe to have seen the bear run from a bush, also heard separate noises that they suspect were bear cubs.
The bear has not attacked anyone or done any known damage. The Ministry of Natural Resources has been notified; they dispatched a trained "bear technician" to the park to determine what can be done to ensure the safety of the campers as well as the bears.
Police offer these tips if you come into contact with a black bear:
If you spot a black bear, stop - don't panic but remain calm.
- Do not try to get closer to the bear for a better look or picture.
- Never feed bears.
- Don't run away, climb a tree, or swim. Watch the bear and slowly back away until the bear is out of sight.
- If you are near a building or vehicle, get inside as a precaution.
- Tell others about bear activity in the area; report it to the park warden and the MNR.
- To report bear problems call: 1-866-514-2327
- For more information, visit the following website: www.ontario.ca/bearwise
