A black bear wandering through Renton’s Highlands Park neighborhood on Monday had police urging residents to tighten up their bear safety routines, especially around Kiwanis Park and Hilltop Heritage Elementary. The animal was spotted in the 1100 block of Shelton Avenue NE as foraging season ramps up, and local officials are reminding neighbors that simple habits can make the difference between a quick sighting and a serious encounter.
What Renton police are advising
According to KIRO 7, Renton Police are asking residents to give the bear plenty of room and to keep pets inside or on-leash and supervised. The department is also emphasizing the basics: secure trash cans in a garage or other enclosed space, skip leaving bowls of pet food outside, and do not block a bear’s exit route if it moves near a home.
If the situation looks dangerous, police say to call 911. For sightings that are not an immediate threat, residents can report the location to the state fish-and-wildlife hotline at 877-933-9487.
State guidance for living with bears
The Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife notes that black bears are common across Washington and that most conflicts with people start with easy food sources like garbage, pet food and bird feeders. To cut down on unwanted visits, WDFW recommends storing garbage in a garage or bear-resistant container, taking down bird feeders while bears are active, picking fruit promptly and securing small livestock.
The agency also points out that bear spray can be effective in outdoor encounters and that people should never feed or approach bears.
Renton Has Seen Bears Before
This is not Renton’s first close-up with a black bear. In May 2017, wildlife crews and police spent hours dealing with a bear that climbed a tree near a Renton elementary, according to FOX 13 Seattle. Officials worked through the night to move the animal off school property before it eventually left the area.
How to respond if you spot a bear
If you come across a bear, stay calm and give it space to leave; do not run or try to approach cubs. Back away slowly while speaking in a low, firm voice. If the bear is not acting aggressively, you can make yourself look larger with others, clap or make noise to encourage it to move on. Use bear spray if the animal approaches aggressively, and call 911 if it poses an immediate threat.
For non-emergency sightings, report the location to the statewide line at 877-933-9487 and review the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife’s guidance for homes and recreation areas.
