Keep Your Trash Safe from Bears

Although not every state faces the very real threat of bears, many states, such as Alaska, are faced with bears coming into neighborhoods and communities. Bears are attracted into these areas for many reasons, but the most probably reason for a bear to venture into an area populated by humans is for food. No, bears aren’t likely to be searching for human prey, but rather the trash and food scraps humans are well-known for leaving behind.

Keep your trash inaccessible
One of the biggest mistakes that people living in regions populated by bears make is leaving their trash easily accessible to bears and other wildlife. Leaving garbage on your back porch, or in a small shed isn’t likely a safe option. Bears, as well as other wild animals and dogs, are likely to pick up the scent of your trash and come to investigate.

To prevent bears and other wildlife from digging their claws into your trash (and coming near your home) make sure to store trash and garbage securely indoors. Keeping your trash in an inaccessible garage or in a laundry room is much safer for you and your family, than placing it outdoors. Keeping trash indoors isn’t always an option, however, and in these cases, families should invest in specialized bear-proof trash containers.Bear-proof trash containers are specifically designed to withstand the force a bear may exert onto it, as well as to blend into natural surroundings and prevent odors from escaping the container; odors which could attract wildlife.

Never approach a bear
Bears can be unpredictable and if you startle or upset a bear, it could very well be the last thing that you ever do. If a bear has gotten near your property and has not noticed you, get yourself and anyone who may be with you indoors quickly and quietly, making sure to remain as quiet as possible. Once safely inside, lock the doors (barricade them if you have to) and call your states Department of Fish and wildlife. If you are unsure of Fish and Wildlife’s number, call 911.

If the bear has noticed you, assess the situation and distance, and consider backing away slowly if it appears safe to do so. If retreating does not appear to be an option, and the bear is a black bear, you may attempt to frighten it away by making loud noises and making yourself seem larger than you are. Black bears are more timid and are more easily frightened into retreating. If the bear is a grizzly, you may attempt to play dead. The grizzly may still harm you, however, keeping as quiet as possible and playing dead is likely to reduce the injuries sustained by the attack.

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