Black Bear Raids Trash In Lawrence, Prompts Safety Reminder

LAWRENCE TOWNSHIP, NJ — A young black bear was reported getting into trash near Tall Timbers Drive and Carter Road on Tuesday night, Township officials said. Residents are being reminded how to stay safe around bears.

A resident reported the sighting. Bears are especially active this time of year because they are looking for food before winter.

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If you see a bear that's just passing through and not causing trouble, leave it alone and give it space. Never approach or feed a bear, and don't try to get close to take a photo or video.

Feeding bears is illegal in New Jersey.

How to keep bears away from your home

• Store trash in a garage, shed or bear-resistant container.

• Put trash out the morning of pickup, not the night before.

• Rinse garbage cans regularly to cut down on odors.

• Bring in pet food and take down bird feeders.

• Clean grills after each use.

If you encounter a bear

• Stay calm and don't run.

• Let the bear know you're there by speaking firmly or making noise.

• Back away slowly and make sure the bear has a clear path to leave.

• Bring children and pets inside.

Call 911 if a bear poses an immediate threat. To report bear damage or nuisance behavior, call the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection's 24-hour hotline at 1-877-WARN-DEP (1-877-927-6337).

More information is available on the NJDEP Fish & Wildlife bear page.

Have a correction or a news tip? Email sarah.salvadore@patch.com