Residents of two northern B.C. Indigenous communities are being urged to remain bear aware after multiple sightings were reported on Monday.
The Witset First Nation says two bears were spotted in the community during the morning of June 29. One bear was seen near John Brown Creek, while another was reported behind the ballfield near the community garden.
At the same time, the Haisla Nation issued a bear advisory after a bear was sighted near the Wathl Creek Bridge in Kitamaat Village.
Both communities are reminding residents that bear activity increases at this time of year and are encouraging everyone to take precautions to reduce the risk of encounters.
Safety reminders include keeping a safe distance from bears, never approaching or feeding wildlife, securing garbage, recycling and compost, keeping children and pets close or on leash, and making noise while walking through wooded areas to avoid surprising animals.
If a bear is encountered, residents are advised to remain calm, back away slowly, and give the animal plenty of room to leave the area.
Community leaders are also asking residents to report bear sightings when appropriate to help monitor wildlife activity and keep both people and bears safe.
Officials say staying alert and reducing attractants around homes can help prevent conflicts during the height of bear season.
