Spring has sprung and bears are starting to wake up in the area. 

Town of Cochrane officials are urging residents to handle attractants responsibly to prevent bear conflicts.

Some steps include: 

Secure bird feeders: Store them indoors or hang them out of bears' reach, especially during peak activity hours like dawn and dusk.

• Time waste disposal: Put out waste, recycling, and organics carts in the morning, not the night before.

• Manage compost: Keep compost indoors; outdoor compost can lure bears.

• Spread awareness: Educate neighbors on bear safety and the necessity of attractant control.

Residents are being reminded to be bear aware as our community is no stranger to bear activity:

  • Carry bear spray (be sure to check the expiration date.
  • Make noise
  • Keep all pets on a leash and close to you at all times.
  • Be aware of your surroundings on walking on trails
  • Be respectful of the space and needs of wildlife 

If you do encounter a bear or any other wildlife that could be a public safety concern you are asked to call the 24-hour Report-A-Poacher line at 1-800-642-3800.