What to Do If You See a Bear: Essential Safety Tips for Every Encounter

Published

7 months ago

October 28, 2025

Rockland Report Admin

🧭 GENERAL RULES (for any bear encounter)

Stay calm.
Don’t run or scream — that can trigger a chase response.
Identify yourself.
Speak calmly and firmly (“Hey bear…”) so it knows you’re human, not prey.
Don’t make eye contact.
That can be seen as a challenge.
Back away slowly.
Move sideways if possible — it’s less threatening and lets you keep an eye on the bear.
Make yourself look big.
Raise your arms, open your jacket, or stand on a rock/log if needed.
Never approach a bear.
Especially not cubs — a mother bear will defend them aggressively.
Have bear spray ready if you’re in bear country.
Know how to use it and keep it accessible (not in your backpack).

🐻 If it’s a Black Bear

Usually more timid and can often be scared off.
Make yourself big, shout, and clap.
Throw sticks or rocks toward (not at) it if it approaches.
Do not play dead. If it attacks, fight back aggressively.

🐾 If it’s a Grizzly/Brown Bear

Often larger, with a humped back and dish-shaped face.
Do not make loud noises or provoke it.
Back away slowly.
If it charges and makes contact: Play dead.
- Lie flat on your stomach, cover your neck, spread your legs to make it harder to flip you over.
- Stay still until the bear leaves.

🚨 If the Bear Charges

Many charges are bluff charges.
- The bear may huff, snort, or stomp before stopping short.
Stand your ground. Use bear spray when it’s about 30–40 feet (10–12 meters) away.

In the event you see a bear in your neighborhood or backyard ALWAYS call your local authorities.

Clarkstown Police Department Promotes Kevin McCahey to Sergeant

Published

3 days ago

June 3, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

The Clarkstown Police Department has announced the promotion of Kevin McCahey to the rank of Sergeant.

McCahey began his law enforcement career with the New York City Police Department in January 2015 before joining the Clarkstown Police Department in 2018.

During his tenure in Clarkstown, McCahey has served as a member of the Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT), a field training officer, and a drill instructor at the police academy. His experience and leadership have played an important role in training and mentoring fellow officers.

As Sergeant, McCahey will be assigned to the Patrol Division, where he will continue serving and protecting the Clarkstown community.

Department officials congratulated Sgt. McCahey on his well-deserved promotion and wished him continued success in his new role.

Police/Fire/EMS

Rockland Paramedic Services Earns American Heart Association EMS Award

Published

3 days ago

June 3, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

Rockland Paramedic Services has received the American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline EMS Bronze Achievement Award for its commitment to delivering rapid, evidence-based care to patients experiencing severe heart attacks and strokes.

The award recognizes EMS agencies that excel in providing lifesaving prehospital care and ensuring patients receive timely treatment before arriving at the hospital.

“Rockland Paramedic Services is honored to be recognized by the American Heart Association for our dedication to providing optimal care for heart attack patients,” said Executive Director Tim Egan.

Mission: Lifeline is the American Heart Association’s national initiative aimed at improving outcomes for patients with time-sensitive cardiovascular and stroke emergencies through coordinated care between EMS providers and hospitals.

Rockland Paramedic Services operates as a nonprofit Advanced Life Support provider in Rockland County, responding alongside local volunteer ambulance corps to medical emergencies throughout the county. The organization is dedicated to providing state-of-the-art equipment, advanced training, and lifesaving medical care to residents when every second counts.