black bear North Bay OPP reporting they have received numerous nuisance bear complaints in residential areas, and they are asking the public to be cautious when outdoors.

If there is little natural food available, police say bears will venture into residential areas to search through garbage and bird feed.

To minimize the chances of attracting bears you should Store garbage in waste containers with tight-fitting lids, put garbage out only on the morning of pickup and clean outdoor barbecue grills after each use, including the grease trap underneath.

As well, call 9-1-1 or local police if a bear poses an immediate threat to personal safety.