Tips for avoiding conflicts with black bears

Wildlife officials offer the following tips to avoid human conflicts with hungry black bears:

— Store garbage securely.

— Feed pets indoors.

— Remove birdfeeders during the summer.

— While camping, store food, garbage and toiletries in bear-resistant canisters away from your sleeping and activity area.

— Never approach or surround a bear.

— Yell, clap or bang pots to scare a bear away.

— If you feel threatened, don't run, but back away slowly.