Its the time of year when the bears in Saskatchewan emerge from their dens, and begin the search for food.

Black bears are found all through Saskatchewan, and keeping your yard free of the things that attract bears is the best way to avoid a bear encouter.  When bears associate human activity with a food source, bears become a public nuisance, and a threat to safety.

Here is a list of tips from the Provincial Government and the Ministry of Environment.

• Store garbage in a secure building or buy a bear-resistant container. Only put the bin out on the morning of collection.
• Wash all recycling items and regularly clean garbage or recycling bins.
• Avoid leaving pet food accessible to wildlife.
• Only use bird feeders in the winter when bears are hibernating.
• Do not add fish, meat, fat, oils, unrinsed eggshells or any cooked food to backyard compost bins.
• Thoroughly clean and store barbecue grills after each use.

If you are travelling to the back country, or some out of the way spot, you are reminded to take precautions as well.