Asheville Reporter

City of Asheville issued the following announcement on June 28.

In Asheville, we share our community with some pretty incredible critters. Our most iconic, the black bear, not only shares your love of the mountains – but they can be pretty fond of human food and festivity leftovers as well. 

So our friends at The NC Wildlife Resources Commission have some tips for you on how to be BearWise this weekend whether your holiday celebration takes you outdoors or around your home. 

The biggest Bear attraction anywhere is your food. 

Black Bears love them some food y’all. They can smell food and garbage from miles away! So, while you are celebrating, be mindful to secure your food and all that extra garbage this holiday weekend… and every day. 

Home  

• Secure food, garbage, and recycling.
• Never leave human foods outside unattended. You’ve seen Yogi bear – you know where that picnic basket is going.
• Properly dispose of cooking grease. Never dump used cooking oil in your yard or in the woods! Like the smell of bacon grease? Yeah – so do bears.
• Garbage and recycling should be stored where bears cannot access it: either in a bear-resistant container or inside a bear-resistant building. Better yet sign up for a bear Cart trash can. Yes, there’s a waitlist – cause they work!
• Clean your grill guys – you wanted that steak when you smelled it grilling. So does a bear, and he’s been eating berries. 

When it’s time to hit the great outdoors, remember, now you’re in their home. Here are some things you can do to be safe and be a good guest. Cause y’all know your momma raised you to be a good guest.  

The Great Outdoors

• Stay alert – stay together: Be aware of your surroundings. Let others know if you see a bear in the area.
• Hike in groups and keep kids within sight.
• Keep dogs leashed or leave them home. Do not let dogs chase or interact with bears.
• Make noise in thick cover and frequently as you move along.
• Carry bear spray and properly educate yourself on how to deploy it.
• Do not store food in your tent. Cook 100 yards from your tent; clean cooking area thoroughly. Do not sleep in clothes you wore when cooking.
• Store food, trash, lotions, toothpaste, and deodorant in a hardtop vehicle  

Learn other tips from NC Wildlife Resources Commission at: Bearwise.org

Source: https://www.ashevillenc.gov/news/be-bear-aware-this-holiday-weekend/