A man was injured in a grizzly bear attack in the backcountry near Pemberton, prompting conservation officers to investigate and post warning signs in the area.
A man suffered non-life-threatening injuries in a grizzly bear attack in a backcountry area of the Rutherford Creek drainage near Pemberton, the BC Conservation Officer Service says.
Conservation officers determined the attack was defensive and stemmed from a close-range surprise encounter between the man and the bear. The man was able to get himself out of the area and seek medical treatment.
The service’s predator attack team travelled to the remote site to investigate and assess the risk to the public. Officers found no ongoing threat to other people using the backcountry, according to the service, and crews are installing warning signs in the area.
The Conservation Officer Service is urging anyone heading into the area to stay alert and be ready for possible encounters with wildlife.
The agency also released a set of safety tips for people travelling in grizzly country:
- Stay alert and watch for signs of bear activity.
- Make noise while travelling, especially where visibility is limited.
- Travel in groups whenever possible.
- Keep dogs leashed or under control where required.
- Carry bear spray, keep it within reach, and know how to use it.
- Give bears plenty of room and never approach wildlife.
- If you encounter a bear, stay calm, back away slowly, and don’t run.
