Beware of bears in search of snacks in green bins: Nova Scotia RCMP

RCMP in Nova Scotia are advising people to be on the lookout for bears and other animals this time of year, after a man in Three Brooks, N.S., struck a 350-pound black bear on Highway 6 Wednesday night.

Police say the bear had been in search of food in the green bins left at the ends of driveways along the road.

The man suffered minor injuries in the collision.

The bear was found suffering from injuries and had to be put down.

In light of the collision, RCMP are reminding residents to be on the lookout for bears. It’s not that long ago that they were hibernating and their priority at this time of year is to find food — wherever they can, including your green bin.

They also give the following tips for people to keep the food smells at bay, and the hungry bears away:

• Store garbage, compost and recycling in containers that have tight-fitting lids and can be secured or locked
• Don’t leave garbage, compost or recycling outside overnight — put it outside on the morning of its scheduled pickup
• Avoid using bird feeders during bear season
• Clean barbecues often and cover them when they’re not in use
• Keep pet food indoors
• If you have fruit trees, pick fruit as soon as it ripens and remove fallen fruit from the ground

RCMP say if you see a bear in your neighbourhood, call your local Department of National Resources office.