Residents in the Wiltse neighbourhood are being reminded to keep garbage carts away from the curb overnight following a recent spate of bear activity.
Bears are attracted to easily accessible food sources, including household garbage. Putting carts out the night before collection can attract wildlife to neighbourhoods and increase the risk of human-bear conflicts.
The City is asking residents to help protect their neighbourhood by keeping carts secured and only placing them at the curb on the morning of collection day, before 7 a.m.
City staff will be conducting cart inspections outside of the designated collection times as part of ongoing education and outreach efforts to help reduce wildlife attractants and keep the community safe.
Residents are reminded that carts may only be placed at the curb between 5 a.m. and 7 p.m. on collection day. Placing carts at the curb outside of these times may result in a $100 fine.
Tips to keep the bears away
- Set carts out the morning of collection day – not the night before.
- Keep garbage, recyclables, compost and other attractants secure – indoors is best.
- Rinse out your cart to keep it odour and garbage free.
- Freeze smelly items until collection day.
- Ensure your backyard compost is working properly.
If you see a bear in the community, stay away and contact the BC Conservation Officer Service at 1-877-952-7277 (RAPP).
To learn more about bears and other wildlife in Penticton, visit penticton.ca/wildlife.