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Keremeos Latest Community to Issue Bear Warnings
Residents were urged to secure garbage, fruit and pet food as bears search for food before winter hibernation, officials said.
The Village of Keremeos issued a warning to residents after bears were spotted in all areas throughout the community, with officials advising residents to take extra precautions to avoid attracting wildlife.
With summer heat fading and fall approaching, bears are actively seeking food to fatten themselves up for winter hibernation, driving the animals into new areas in search of high-calorie food sources.
Residents can reduce bear interactions by securing garbage in locked sheds, picking ripe fruit immediately, and removing bird feeders, while experts recommend using motion lights, cleaning barbecue grills after use, and locking vehicles.
Recent encounters include a bear euthanized at a Pharmasave in Hope on Sept. 20, while other sightings occurred in Penticton, Kelowna, and Okanagan Lake throughout the past month.
Managing attractants remains the most effective strategy for coexistence as bears remain active across the region, and residents are encouraged to maintain these safety steps to help keep the Village safe.