Remember that bears are very inquisitive and have a strong sense of smell. They will return to your home if attracted by new attractants. If the problem persists, using electric fencing is the ultimate solution to keep bears from straying onto property.

Managing Bear Attractants

Garbage

• Put your garbage out on the day of pick-up only, never overnight
• Store your garbage bins in a secure garage, in your home, or in a bear-proof container (wooden sheds or bin enclosures are easily damaged by bears)
• Clean your garbage bins on a regular basis with ammonia or vinegar
• Double bag smelly garbage like diapers and if necessary freeze it until pickup day
• The District of North Vancouver puts out bear proof garbage bins during bear season in pedestrian traffic areas known to have bears. The locations of these bins are shown here.

Fruit trees. Pick fruit from trees before it falls

Bird feeders. Take down bird feeders during bear season; there is plenty of natural food for birds throughout the year and you can attract birds by providing a flower garden, bird bath, dusting site, or nesting boxes

Compost. Add lime to your compost and do not put in:

• Meat and fish scraps
• Fruit or other sweet remains
• Cooked or seasoned food
• Unrinsed eggshells
• Coffee grinds

Food left outside. This includes pet food, outdoor fridges and freezers

Barbeques. Remember to clean your barbecue after each use

Water.This includes ponds, pools, and hot tubs (especially plastic covers)