By Curtis Galbraith

Bear Safety

Officers monitoring situation after reports of grizzly bear sighting in Carriage Lane area

Jul 6, 2022 | 4:42 PM

Alberta Fish and Wildlife says a trap has been set up after reports of a grizzly bear sighting in the Carriage Lane neighbourhood, east of the Grande Prairie city limits.

Fish and Wildlife says “several calls” came in Tuesday night and that a bear has not been captured.

Officers will continue to monitor the area.

Fish and Wildlife says bears look for what they call “unnatural food sources” and can be a risk to public safety as they will become habituated and protect those food sources.

Officials have some advice on dealing with bears, which includes:

Meaningful Mementos

Remembering Someone You've Lost at Christmas

Dec 03, 2024

Seasonal Sorrow

How Do You Get Through The Holidays When You're Grieving?

Nov 01, 2024

Upcoming Events at Oliver's

Grief & Loss and Estate Planning Seminars

Oct 02, 2024

• Residents should store garbage in bear-resistant and odour-proof containers or buildings.
• Any possible attractants should be cleaned up and removed as soon as possible, if not immediately, to avoid habituation of bears and other wildlife.
• Pet food should never be left outside or stored in areas accessible to bears.
• Residents should clean barbecues and outdoor eating areas after use.
• Gardens and fruit-bearing trees or shrubs also attract bears and should be properly maintained or removed.

If you encounter a bear in the wild, follow these tips to avoid a conflict:

• Do not run. Stay calm. Stay with your group and keep children close. Assess the situation.
• Look around. If you see cubs or an animal carcass, the bear will want to protect them. If you see either, back away from them.
• Prepare to use your bear spray.
• Back out. Leave the area the way that you came. Keep your eye on the bear without staring at it aggressively.
• Watch for a place to hide. As you back away, seek out a place of safety, such as a car or building.
• Speak to the bear in a soft, low voice. Let the bear know that you are human and not a prey animal.
• Use your noisemaker and prepare to defend yourself with bear spray.