Black bears live and roam throughout much of the state, including areas of the Uintah Basin, and the Division of Wildlife Resources is offering their tips for staying safe while recreating in bear country. “Even though they’re incredibly strong and surprisingly fast, black bears will typically do everything they can to avoid people,” shares Darren DeBloois, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources game mammals coordinator. “When a bear finds food, though, that all changes. Once it finds food, a bear will often become aggressive toward anything it perceives as threatening the area where it found the food. That includes people. We are anticipating another summer with a lot of bear activity, so please take the necessary steps to protect yourself from a bear encounter.” A few simple tips for staying safe while recreating or even at home include the following: bear-proof your food and supplies, keep your cooking area clean, keep your campsite clean, never feed a bear, bear-proof your outdoor garbage cans, and remove items that will attract a bear to your house. If you encounter a bear, stand your ground. Don’t run away or climb a tree. If a bear stands up and makes noises it is not being aggressive, this is an expression of interest. If a black bear attacks, always fight back and never give up. For more tips, visit wildlife.utah.gov/living-with-
