Surrey RCMP is notifying the public of a bear sighting the Newton area.
On July 12, 2024, at 11:50 am the Surrey RCMP responded to multiple reports of a bear sighting in the area of 141 Street and 76 Avenue. Police had maintained a visual of the bear as it was last seen in the ravine in this area.
“While wild animals, such as bears, are not uncommon in cities in the Lower Mainland, the Surrey RCMP are requesting that the public maintain their distance and remember that wild animals can be dangerous”, says Sgt. James Mason, Surrey RCMP Media Relations Unit.
The British Columbia Conservation Services has been notified and are monitoring the situation.
Bear Safety Tips:
- Do not feed bears. It’s against the law to feed dangerous wildlife.
- Remain calm. Do not run or climb a tree. Slowly back away, talking to the bear in a quiet, monotone voice. Do not scream, turn your back on the bear, kneel down or make direct eye contact.
- Keep away from the bear. Do not try to get closer to it. If the bear gets too close, use bear spray or similar animal irritant (within 7 metres), or something else to threaten or distract it.
- Stay together. If you are with others, act as a group. Keep children close – pick up and carry small children.
- Go indoors. Bring pets indoors if possible.
- Watch the bear until it leaves. Make sure the bear has a clear escape route. After the bear is gone and it’s safe, make sure there is nothing in the area that will attract bears back again.
