Officials are warning people to be vigilant as bears are more likely to enter residential areas during the spring and summer months. Alberta Forestry and Parks and Public Safety and Emergency Services are advising people spending time in forests and outdoors during the holidays to take necessary safety precautions.
Bears are more likely to attack humans when they emerge from the woods in search of food during the spring. With food sources scarce at the start of the season, bears will approach trails, roads, campsites and residential areas during this period. Foraging bears will look for food in garbage cans. Therefore, officials also warned that garbage cans should be kept safe.
Officials are advising backcountry hikers, hikers, campers and fishermen to be aware of bears and take precautions. The best time for bear activities is from May to October. If you see bears or encounter other dangerous situations, you can report them to the Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Service at 1-800-642-3800, officials said.