black bear(file photo) North Bay Police are advising residents to be bear wise, pointing out there have been bear sightings in a number of areas.

They include Larocque Road, Highway 17 West and College Drive, Airport Road, Chapais Street, Springdale Drive and a large animal, possibly a bear was spotted on Premier Road.

Police say only call 911 if a bear poses an immediate threat to personal safety.

– enters a school yard when school is in session;
– enters or tries to enter a residence;
– wanders into a public gathering;
– kills livestock/pets and lingers at the site; or
– stalks people and lingers at the site.

For non-emergencies, contact the Bear Wise line at 1-866-514-2327.

– roaming around, checking garbage cans;
– breaking into a shed where garbage or food is stored;
– in a tree;
– pulling down a bird feeder or knocking over a barbecue;
– moving through a backyard or field but is not lingering.