Coquitlam residents advised to be bear aware after increased sightings

The City of Coquitlam is telling residents to be careful as the summer weather means more bear activity in the area.

Because bears have a very powerful sense of smell and are naturally drawn to unsecured food sources, residents need to minimize attractants such as garbage, pet food, bird seed, and fruit trees, the city says.

“Recent bear sightings have increased around parks, natural areas, and neighborhoods,” the city said in a news release.

“City staff actively patrol these areas, targeting attractants such as improperly stored garbage and green carts.”

The city says residents should protect their properties by securing all windows and doors, including garage doors. Food waste, garbage, and recycling should be stored in locked garages or wildlife-resistant enclosures.

“When bears associate food with humans, they pose greater risk to public safety,” it said.

“By being bear smart and making populated areas less appealing, we encourage bears to forage naturally in their habitats.”

The city also has advice on how to react if you run into a bear while you are outside: stop and remain calm, do not scream or run, and speak in a low, calm voice while backing away slowly.