The Juneau Police Department on Thursday released a public safety announcement regarding bears — and when to call the police about bear activity.
“Bears are out and about in the community and can be fun to see, but it is important for all of us to do our part to keep people and bears safe,” JPD Public Safety Manager Erann Kalwara wrote in the release. “Citizens can help limit contact with bears in residential areas by removing bird seed, pet food and garbage from areas accessible to bears and by protecting your chicken coops and other livestock with electric fences. Keeping barbecue grills and smokers clean is also helpful. Minimizing these attractants is the best way to reduce the amount of time a bear will be in your neighborhood.”
JPD also offered advice on what to do if you encounter a bear on your property.
“If you have a problem with a bear around your home, be sure that you and your family are in a safe location such as inside a vehicle or residence,” Kalwara wrote. “Loud noises may be used to scare the bear away. If a bear is a threat to a person’s life or to your property, you should call for police or Fish and Game response.”
Juneau residents should use discretion in calling 911, however.
“It is not necessary to report bears walking through the area or displaying routine bear activity to the police,” Kalwara wrote. “If you are aware of a litter issue or other bear attractants, notify the police on a business line. Do not use 911 for these issues, as we need to keep 911 lines available to field emergency calls for service. A bear walking through a neighborhood does not constitute an emergency call. If a bear is acting aggressive toward a person or is inside a residence, the police should be called.”
