July 18, 2014
Public Advisory: Gaultois Area Residents Warned of Black Bear Activity
The Department of Natural Resources is advising residents to be cautious given recent black bear sightings in and around the Town of Gaultois. Based on information received from a number of residents within the community, the sightings have been in the Valley area and near homes immediately behind the government wharf.
Residents should exercise caution when participating in outdoor activities, particularly after dark. To avoid attracting bears into their communities and backyards where they can pose a risk to public safety, residents are encouraged to ensure the proper storage and disposal of garbage, including not storing garbage in outside containers until collection day.
The department warns residents that wild animals can be extremely dangerous and unpredictable when approached by humans. If anyone encounters a bear, they are reminded to:
- Remain calm;
- Back away slowly and do not run;
- Avoid eye contact with the bear; and,
- Remove any garbage or food that may have attracted the bear.
Anyone sighting a black bear is asked to contact their local Forest Management Office.
The standby telephone number for the Gaultois area to be used after regular business hours is 709-538-7436.
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Media contact:
Diana Quinton
Director of Communications
Department of Natural Resources
709-729-5282, 631-8155
dianaquinton@gov.nl.ca
2014 07 18 3:20 p.m.