Beware of the Bears

• Use bear-proof garbage containers, if possible. They offer the best protection. Otherwise, store all garbage in containers with tight-fitting lids and place them along the inside walls of your garage, or in the basement, a sturdy shed or other secure area.
  
• Put out garbage on collection day, not the night before.
  
• Wash garbage containers with disinfectant solution at least once a week to remove odors. Draping rags soaked in bleach over your garbage bags also help to eliminate odors.
  
• Feed dogs and cats outside during daylight hours only. Immediately after feeding pets, remove all uneaten food and scraps as well as food bowls.
  
• Clean outdoor grills thoroughly after each use. Grease and food residue will attract bears.
  
• Do not place meat or any sweet foods in compost piles.
  
• Feed birds only between December 1 and April 1 when bears are least active. Suspend birdfeeders from a free-hanging wire, making sure the bottom of the feeder is at least 10 feet off the ground. Clean up spilled seeds and shells.
  
• Pick up any fruit that falls from fruit trees daily, and discard it in garbage containers with tight-fitting lids.