NEWS FROM THE BRECKENRIDGE POLICE DEPARTMENT
For Immediate Release Contact: Kim Green Date: August 9, 2012 Phone: 970.547.3115 Breckenridge Citizens Are Urged to be “Bear Aware”
The Breckenridge Police Department would like to inform citizens of increased bear activity in the area. An early spring, in addition to a lack of winter moisture, has impacted their natural food sources this year. Citizens have reported several instances of bears foraging through trash cans in Breckenridge and some bears have even entered structures seeking food. In 2011, Breckenridge Police were dispatched to 5 wildlife calls in the month of July. This year, officers responded to 18 calls for service involving wildlife. Therefore, it is important that citizens do their part to help keep bears wild. • Never feed bears or other wildlife. • Store garbage properly. The Town of Breckenridge’s trash code can be viewed at www.townofbreckenridge.com (Code 5-2-2) • Remove attractions around the outside of your home such as pet food, bird feeders, barbeque grills, etc. • Keep doors and windows locked to prevent bears from entering structures, including garages and homes. For additional information on living with bears in your area, visit the Colorado Division of Wildlife’s website at www.wildlife.state.co.us/bears. To report bear activity in your area, contact non-emergency Dispatch at 970.668.8600.