B.C. Conservation Officer Service (COS) are warning the public that bears are becoming more active as fall approaches and they prepare for hibernation.

Bears need to find food and store fat before retreating for the winter season. 

Due to drought, wildfires and poor berry crops in various areas of the province, natural food sources have been greatly reduced.

Bears may end up travelling further than usual and looking in new places for food. 

COS warns the public that this means giving bears even less reasons to wander into communities.

Bears can become food-conditioned to garbage, pet food, birdseed and other attractants that are not properly secured.