State officials urge safe camping in bear country during 4th of July weekend

MINNESOTA. (Valley News Live) - As campers head into the woods for the holiday weekend, state wildlife officials are urging anyone in bear country to clean up their campsites and store food properly to avoid attracting wildlife.

They say campers should cook as far from their tents as possible and never store food, trash, cooking clothes or toiletries inside their tents.

Instead, officials recommend using bear-resistant containers or locking food and garbage inside a vehicle.

In backcountry areas, food and trash should be suspended at least 10 feet above the ground and 10 feet from the tree trunk.

Beyond the campsite, campers should keep dogs leashed and carry bear spray — and know how to use it.

Authorities stress that people should never feed bears and should not approach them. If you see a bear, stand still and quietly back away.

More hiking and camping bear safety tips are available at BearWise.org.