The state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection advises that if you see a bear:
- Enjoy it from a distance
- Make your presence known by shouting and waving your arms or slowly walk away
- Don't try to feed it.
- Report the sighting to the Wildlife Division, 860-675-8130
Homeowners, especially those who live in wooded or wilderness settings, should avoid attracting bears by:
- Removing bird feeders from late March through November. If a bear visits a bird feeder in winter, remove the feeder.
- Wait until the morning of collection before bringing out trash. Add a few capfuls of ammonia to trash bags and garbage cans to mask food odors. Keep trash bags in a container with a tight lid and store in a garage or shed.
- Do not leave pet food outside overnight. Store livestock food in airtight containers.
- Do not put meats or sweet-smelling fruit rinds in compost piles. Lime can be sprinkled on the compost pile to reduce the smell and discourage bears.
- Thoroughly clean grills after use or store in a garage or shed.
Never intentionally feed bears. Bears that associate food with people may become aggressive and dangerous. This may lead to personal injury, property damage, and the need to destroy problem animals.
Encourage your neighbors to take similar precautions.
Department of Energy and Environmental Protection