Smokies officials advise precautions while bears are active

GATLINBURG, Tenn. (AP) – It’s an active time of year for bears, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park officials say visitors should take precautions to keep themselves and bears safe.

Park Wildlife Biologist Bill Stiver says there have been reports across the park of bear sightings. Stiver advises the public to respect the bears.

The park says allow bears to forage undisturbed on natural foods and don’t feed them. Food should be properly stored and garbage secured. Coolers should also be stored in a vehicle trunk when not in use. Dispose of food waste properly to discourage bears from approaching people.

Hikers should hike in groups of two or more, carry bear spray, comply with backcountry closures, properly store food and remain at a safe distance from bears.

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These posts were all within the last 15 hours from the Park:

💜
@kgray313

It’s a bear 🐻😊

Rebecca
@mookiel1

Sorry for the shaky video. The rangers wanted us off the road and onto the shoulder. #goldilocks #blackbear #bear #cadescove

Vasanth Ramasamy
@vasanthrmsmy

#smokymountains #bearsview🐻 #waitingtocrosstheroad #humantrespassers

Thomas Wetherington
@tomtomtn

I think I’ll fish the next hole..#blackbear #gsmnp