Hey Utah! Don’t Poke The Bear!

With warmer weather stirring black bears from hibernation, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) is reminding residents and outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions to avoid encounters with these native animals during the summer months.

Black bears are Utah’s only bear species and can be found throughout much of the state, especially in mountainous areas, canyons, and foothills. The exception is the West Desert, where they are not typically found. Bears generally come out of hibernation in March or April, depending on snow levels. While their spring diet is largely made up of plants and insects, their strong sense of smell can draw them toward campsites and neighborhoods in search of human food.

“Even though they’re incredibly strong and surprisingly fast, black bears will typically do everything they can to avoid people,” said DWR Game Mammals Coordinator Darren DeBloois in a press release. “When a bear finds food, though, that can all change.”

Keep It Clean, Pack It Out!

To reduce the risk of attracting bears, the DWR advises campers to store all food, snacks, and scented items—like toothpaste and deodorant—in locked trailers or the trunks of vehicles, never in tents or left out on tables. Cooking areas should be kept clean, and food residue such as oil or grease should be placed in containers and packed out rather than dumped on the ground. Trash should be collected and taken home, and picnic tables should be wiped down before leaving the area.

Read More: A Great Place To Camp In Our Back Yard

Homeowners in bear country are encouraged to take similar precautions. Garbage cans should be stored in garages until pickup, grills should be cleaned regularly, and attractants like bird feeders, pet food, compost, and fruit trees should be removed or secured. These steps help prevent bears from associating human areas with food.

In the event of a bear encounter, officials say to remain calm and never run or attempt to climb a tree. Bears can climb and run faster than humans. Standing your ground gives the bear a chance to leave. If attacked, fight back with whatever is available—people have successfully used rocks, sticks, backpacks, and even their hands.

Sightings in foothills and canyons should only be reported if the bear is causing damage or acting aggressively. However, any bear that wanders into city limits or heavily populated areas should be reported to the DWR.

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More safety tips and resources can be found at the Wild Aware Utah website.