Camping season is here, be careful about encounters with bears

Camping season is here, be careful about encounters with bears. Spring is coming, and it is a good season for camping. The Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center reminds tourists who go out for outings and camping: Be careful...

Camping season is here, beware of encounters with bears. Spring is here, and it’s a good season for camping. The Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center reminds tourists who go out for outings and camping: Be careful of black bears. In June last year, Ms. Gilbert was attacked and killed by a black bear while taking her dog for a walk in the wild. Kalkin, director of the Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center, said black bears have a keen sense of smell and can easily find food and camping tents. She advises campers not to leave food in their tents or sleeping quarters. Food, toiletries and other smelly items should be stored in the car in airtight containers. She said bears are more afraid of each other than humans. Consider wearing bells on your body or ankles to let bears know you're coming and stay away, Culkin said. If you encounter a bear, don't panic and run. Culkin said, wait where you are, leave slowly, don't provoke it, wait for it to turn around and walk away, and then leave in the opposite direction. Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center has a special "Bear Encounter" event on April 21st. For details, please see: www.southwestwildlife.org