Smithfield Police offering tips on how to minimize bear encounters amid increase in sightings

Cate Hanewich,

SMITHFIELD, R.I. (WLNE) — The Smithfield Police Department is offering tips on how to minimize bear encounters amid an increase in sightings.

According to the department, western and northwestern Rhode Island has a growing American Black Bear population.

In a Facebook post, the department said Smithfield has had a “handful of sightings” in neighborhoods near wooded areas, and shared a video of a black bear walking across Swan Road.

Even though police said the bears are “generally not a cause of concern,” it is advising residents to do the following to minimize bear encounters:

  • Remove bird and squirrel feeders from the yard
  • Remove pet’s food dishes if a pet eats outside
  • Secure the lids of garbage containers

The department added that intentionally feeding a bear is illegal.

Any resident who spots a bear should report the sighting to the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management Fish & Wildlife at 401-789-0281 and the Smithfield Police Department at 401-231-2500.

For more information on American Black Bears, visit here.

Categories: News, Rhode Island

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