People told to use common sense when it comes to bears in B.C.

Bears are out in B.C. right now looking for food as they fuel up for the winter months. This means people need to start becoming more bear aware.

Last week, a conservation officer had to kill nine bears in one week because they had become dangerous to humans.

The Government of British Columbia said it’s everyone’s responsibility to ensure that bears don’t have to be destroyed for public safety.

What can people do to become more bear aware? Here’s a list:

* Use bear-proof waste containers or keep garbage secured in the house, garage or shed until pickup day, and return the containers to the secure site once they are emptied.

* Pick ripe and fallen fruit daily and remove any unused fruit trees.

* Use bird feeders only in winter. Keep the ground free of seeds and nuts.

* Clean the barbecue grill after each use, and store it in a secure area.

* Bring pet food dishes inside and store the pet food inside.

* Do not add meat products or uncooked food to compost. Turn it regularly and keep it covered.

* Use electric fencing to protect attractants such as small livestock, backyard chickens, beehives, compost bins and fruit trees.

* If residents spot a bear, they are advised to remain calm, keep away from the bear and bring children and pets indoors, if possible.

* People should never approach a bear and should not run from it, as bears can move very quickly.

* Once a bear has left the area, residents should check their yards to ensure there are no attractants available.

The most effective way to reduce human-wildlife interactions is to secure food attractants, such as garbage.

If you’re in bear country there are several things you can do to be bear aware.

First and foremost, stay close to those you are hiking with, especially children. If you’re hiking with a dog, keep them on a leash.

Make noise and a lot of it. Carry a noisemaker, talk loudly, sing or let out the occasional warning shout. This will alert bears of your approach.

Avoid areas that typically are a bear’s food source. This includes berry patches, grain fields, garbage pits, beehives and anywhere that has an animal carcass.

When you’re camping it’s important that you never feed or approach bears. Store food in air-tight containers and keep them in your RV or car trunk.

Under the Wildlife Act, it is illegal to feed or attract dangerous wildlife, such as bears. People can be fined up to $100,000 and could spend one year in prison.