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Ottawa

Ottawa police warn of bear sighting on Old Quarry Trail in Kanata

Published: 

An Ottawa Police vehicle is seen behind police tape. (CTV News Ottawa)

Ottawa police say access to the Old Quarry Trail is restricted after someone spotted a bear Sunday.

Police said in a news release Sunday that officers are monitoring the area.

Use of the trail is being restricted at the moment and residents are asked to be cautious if a bear is encountered, police said.

If a bear is posing an imminent threat to safety, call Ottawa police at 613-236-1222.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU SEE A BEAR

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry says if you encounter a black bear here's what you should do:

  •  Slowly back away while keeping the bear in sight and wait for it to leave.
  •  Throw objects, wave your arms and make noise with a whistle, air horn or yelling if the bear does not leave.
  •  Prepare to use bear spray
  •  Get inside a building or vehicle, if you are nearby, as a precaution
  •  Drop any food you may be carrying and slowly move away
  •  Leave a bear alone if it is in a tree. Leave the area. The bear will come down when it feels safe.
  •  Play dead only if you encounter a mother bear with cubs

If you encounter a black bear, do not:

  •  Run, climb a tree or swim
  •  Kneel down
  •  Make direct eye contact
  •  Approach the bear to get a better look
  •  Attempt to feed a bear
  •  Let your dog off its leash
  •  Play dead unless you are attacked by a mother bear defending her cubs