The B.C. Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS) and the Village of Cumberland are cautioning residents to be vigilant following an incident where a black bear injured a person on Sunday. According to the BCCOS, two hikers with an unleashed dog were attacked by a family of black bears near the Bevan Wetlands. One of the hikers sustained injuries and was later treated at a hospital. Authorities concluded that the bear’s actions were defensive and opted not to locate the bear, but they will be monitoring the area.
The Village of Cumberland has taken to social media to urge visitors to exercise caution by looking out for bear indicators such as fresh droppings and tracks. Hikers are advised to travel in groups, keep their dogs on a leash, carry bear spray, and make noise while trekking through the wilderness to minimize encounters with bears. Any instances of aggressive bear behavior or human-wildlife interactions can be reported to the Conservation Officer Service through the 24-hour RAPP line at 1-877-952-7277.