EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ — Local authorities have issued a public advisory following reports of a black bear sighting in the Lawrence Brook area. Police have assured residents that there is no immediate cause for concern, as the bear appears to be simply passing through the neighborhood. Officials continue to monitor the situation closely.
Residents are encouraged to stay calm and follow basic safety precautions. Black bears are naturally wary of humans and typically avoid close encounters. Anyone who spots the bear should remain indoors and contact police at 732-390-6901 or the DEP hotline at 877-927-6337 (877-WARN DEP).
Avoid Attracting the Bear
To discourage the bear from lingering, locals should take care not to lure it with food or unsecured trash. Bears can quickly learn to associate people with food if they are fed—whether intentionally or accidentally. They will eat just about anything, including garbage, pet food, human leftovers, birdseed, and even small animals. If not properly managed, this can lead to problems for the entire community.
Safety Tips for Bear Encounters
- Do Not Feed Bears: Removing food sources discourages bears from seeking out human habitats.
- Avoid Approaching Bears: Keep a safe distance from any bear you encounter.
- Do Not Run: Running may trigger a chase response.
- Avoid Direct Eye Contact: Bears may interpret this as a threat.
- Stay Calm and Back Away Slowly: Move away from the bear deliberately and without sudden movements.
- Make Noise: Yell, sing, clap your hands, or speak in a loud, firm voice. Use an airhorn if available, or bang pots and pans together.
- Make Yourself Look Bigger: Wave your arms or hold a jacket above your head to appear larger.
- Stay in a Group: If you’re with others, act together.
- Provide an Escape Route: Ensure the bear has a clear path to leave the area.
- If a Bear Enters Your Home: Prop open all doors to give the bear a way out. If it doesn’t leave, move to a safe room.
- Create a “Bear Plan” for Children: In bear-prone areas, have a strategy that includes escape routes and the use of whistles or airhorns.
- Black Bears Rarely Attack: In the rare event of an attack, fight back using a stick, rock, knife, or your feet—aim for the bear’s face and eyes.
Reporting and Resources
Residents are asked to report any property damage or aggressive behavior caused by black bears to the DEP at 1-877-WARN DEP (1-877-927-6337), a 24-hour toll-free hotline. For more detailed bear safety information, visit the NJ DEP website at https://www.nj.gov/dep/fgw/bears/bear-encounters.html.
By following these guidelines, the community can help ensure the bear passes through safely while maintaining peace of mind for East Brunswick residents.
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