Staff
Bears have been sighted in both the west and east ends of town.
Resident Jeanna Wilson took her young day-care kids for a walk to the Point on Friday morning, where they spotted a bear she described as a small yearling.
She noted the bear came from the direction of La Place Rendez-Vous and ran into the wooded area which typically is used for tenting.
Due to the amount of people who walk around the vicinity of the Point, Wilson wanted the public to be aware and remain cautious when they’re out walking.
Sightings also have been documented on the Facebook group entitled Fort Frances Crime Report, noting a bear was spotted last week around Williams Avenue and Elizabeth Street East.
Jane Gillon, meanwhile, put out a warning to west-end residents when her husband saw a large bear by the Church of Jesus Christ of the Ladder Day Saints on the 800 block of Third Street around 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday.
It was noted a bear also was seen around the 500 block of Second Street West and Third Street West that same afternoon.
Residents are reminded to take safety precautions when walking in these areas:
•travel in groups of two or more (bear attacks occur primarily on people who are alone);
•make noise (i.e., singing, whistling, talking) as you move through areas where visibility is restricted or where background noise is high;
•keep your eyes and ears open—do not wear music headphones, scan your surroundings, and watch for signs of bear activity (i.e., tracks, claw marks on trees, flipped-over rocks, or fresh bear droppings);
•if you are out with a dog, leash it (uncontrolled, untrained dogs actually may lead a bear to you); and
•carry and have a readily-accessible whistle or air horn.
Bear Wise Ontario reminds people that if they encounter a bear to remain calm.
“Do not try to get closer to the bear for a better look or picture,” it notes.
“And make sure the bear has a clear escape route.
“Bears are a part of the natural environment,” it adds. “They are not a nuisance. Bears should be respected.
“Never purposely feed bears [or other wildlife] or try to approach them,” it stresses.
You can report non-emergency bear encounters at 1-866-514-2327.
