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SOMBA K'E/YELLOWKNIFE - With warm weather finally approaching, campers and hikers are jumping at the chance to spend time outdoors. But this time of year also marks the awakening of black bears in the region, and officials are urging people to stay safe.

The number of black bears spotted will increase now that spring has arrived, and people are encouraged to report any they may see. - NNSL file photo

"It's spring and the bears are out," said Fred Mandeville, manager of wildlife and environment for North Slave Region with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. "Some of them have young ones, so they are going to be hungry."

He said the late start to spring makes for less available food to the bears, so campers are urged to take all safety precautions necessary in keeping their food away from the animals.

"The biggest thing when people are out camping is what they do around their campsite," he said. "Control the odours in your camp situation, and get rid of garbage as quickly as possible. Bring low-odour foods, and keep them in sealed containers."

Hikers are also at risk of coming across a bear, but following the normal safety rules will often keep them from harm.

"If you do come across a bear, the biggest thing is to leave it alone. A lot of it boils down to common sense."

People who spot bears are asked to report them immediately, said Dean Cluff with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (ENR).

"If there is odd behaviour or they are around garbage dumps it is something that needs to be known," Cluff said.

Any bear sightings can be reported by calling ENR.