Lake Lure Police Issue Bear Safety Reminder as Wildlife Encounters Increase

Officials urge residents and visitors to keep their distance, avoid feeding bears, and report dangerous encounters.

The Lake Lure Police Department is reminding residents and visitors that black bear sightings are common throughout the area and encouraging the public to take precautions when encountering wildlife.

The department said in a statement that while seeing a bear can be an exciting part of the mountain experience, bears are wild animals and should always be treated with caution and respect.

The LLPD works with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission when wildlife-related incidents occur and is asking the public to help protect both the community and the bears that live in the mountains.

Officials provided several safety guidelines for anyone who encounters a bear:

• Remain calm and do not run.

• Slowly back away while allowing the bear a clear path to leave the area.

• Never approach a bear for photographs or videos.

• Maintain a safe distance and allow the bear to move away on its own.

• Do not feed bears or leave food, coolers, pet food, or garbage unattended.

• Keep children close and pets leashed if a bear is nearby.

  
  

The department also warned drivers to reduce speed in areas where bears may be present and said motorists should never stop in the roadway to observe, photograph, or feed a bear.

Officials reminded residents that attempting to scare away a bear by discharging a firearm is prohibited. The discharge of firearms within the Town of Lake Lure is prohibited by town ordinance, except where otherwise authorized by law.

“Know what to do, stay safe, protect our wildlife,” the statement said.

In most cases, officials said bears will leave an area if given enough space. However, if a bear displays aggressive behavior or creates an immediate threat to public safety, residents should move to a secure location and call 911.