Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development
January 27, 2016
Public Advisory: Polar Bear Warning Issued for Fogo Island
Residents are cautioned following reported sightings of polar bears tracks near the community of Titling, on the eastern end of Fogo Island.
Conservation officers confirmed the tracks to be within one kilometre of the community and believe the polar bear has since returned to saltwater.
Residents are encouraged to take appropriate steps, including the proper storage, collection and disposal of garbage, to avoid attracting bears into their communities and backyards.
If an individual encounters a polar bear, they should:
- Remain calm;
- Give the bear(s) space;
- Back away; get out of the situation; never run;
- If you must speak, do so calmly and firmly; and
- Avoid direct eye contact with the bear(s).
Anyone sighting a polar bear is asked to contact their local District Forestry Office. A list of offices can be found at: www.faa.gov.nl.ca/department/contact_forestry.html#satellite.
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Media contact:
Tansy Mundon Director of Communications Department of Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development Forestry and Agrifoods Agency 709-729-4570, 693-1865 tansymundon@gov.nl.ca |
2016 01 27 2:55 p.m.