‘Black bear roaming in residential yards’ in McNabb-Braeside Township: OPP warns

An OPP cruiser is pictured in this undated photo. (Source: OPP Central Region)

The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is warning residents of a bear sighting in the Poole Street area of McNabb-Braeside Township Wednesday morning.

Police say they received multiple calls shortly after 8:00 a.m., reporting a “small black bear roaming in residential yards” near Division Street South before “heading towards Trail 106 of the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs.”

Residents who have pets or children are asked to be cautious, police say, noting that the small bear did not seem to pose an immediate threat.

Here’s what to do when approached by a bear:

• Do not turn and run if the bear tries to approach you.
• Back away slowly while watching the bear.
• Remain calm, make yourself appear as big as possible, make loud noises and throw rocks.

“Often the bear is just passing through and will move on if no food source is found,” The OPP said in a news release.

Police say you can prevent bears from approaching your area by making sure your garbage is stored in airtight containers. More information is available online.

Anyone who sees a bear is asked to call the non-emergency, toll-free Bear Wise reporting line at 1-866-514-2327. In case of an emergency, call 9-1-1.