Residents in Chattooga County, Georgia, and neighboring Cherokee and DeKalb Counties in Alabama, are experiencing an increased number of black bear sightings in recent weeks. In response, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is urging residents to practice “BearWise” principles to ensure both human and bear safety.

“By taking a few proactive steps to be BearWise, we can ensure our outdoor plans and activities this summer are safe, enjoyable and memorable for all. At the same time, being BearWise will help keep bears wild,” said Adam Hammond, WRD’s State Bear Biologist. The DNR emphasizes that wild black bears typically avoid humans, but are often drawn to areas where they can easily access food. Hammond stresses that eliminating food sources is crucial. “Wild black bears typically go out of their way to avoid people, so taking simple precautions to avoid providing bears a free meal will allow us to explore and enjoy the outdoors confidently and may help others do the same.” Here are some key tips from the DNR to stay safe in bear country:

Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Leave the earbuds at home and pay attention to the sounds of nature. Bears often hear you coming and will avoid unnecessary close encounters. Keep children within sight and close by.

Don’t Feed the Bears: Leaving scraps, wrappers, or even seemingly harmless items like apple cores teaches bears to associate areas with food.

Encountering a Bear: If you see a bear before it notices you, do not approach. Stand still, enjoy the view, then quietly move away. If a bear sees you, back away slowly. If the bear continues to approach, stand your ground, wave your arms and yell, throw sticks or rocks, and be prepared to put up an aggressive fight, if necessary, until it leaves. Stay together if you are in a group. Have bear spray at the ready and be prepared to use it if the bear keeps approaching.

The DNR is promoting the national program, BearWise, developed by state bear biologists within the Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies, is dedicated to helping people live responsibly with bears. For more information on how to be BearWise, visit BearWise.org.