fore putting them in covered ….

fore putting them in covered recycling containers or garbage cans.

  Keep meat scraps in the freezer until garbage day and, if possible, keep garbage cans in a closed building until the morning of pick-up.

  Be sure to lock commercial dumpsters.

  Keep pet food inside or inaccessible to bears even during daytime hours.

  Keep barbeque grills and picnic tables clean.

Conflicts will still occur to some degree, so the DNR recommends knowing what to do if you encounter a bear. If a bear is near your home or cabin, from a safe location or a safe distance from the bear, try to scare the bear away by making loud noises or throwing objects in the direction of the bear. When scaring a bear away, make sure it has a clear escape route. Never corner a bear, and do not turn and run away.

If you encounter a bear while in the woods, stay calm and do not approach the bear. Wave your arms and make noise to scare it away. Back away slowly and seek a safe location where you can wait for the bear to leave. Never approach a bear and, for your safety, do not attempt to break up a fight between your pet and a bear.

If unable to resolve a conflict with a bear, contact the USDA Wildlife Services toll-free line at 1-800-433-0663 for properties in southern Wisconsin and 1-800-2281368 for properties in the north.