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

Published

6 months ago

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🧭 GENERAL RULES (for any bear encounter)

  1. Stay calm.
    Don’t run or scream — that can trigger a chase response.

  2. Identify yourself.
    Speak calmly and firmly (“Hey bear…”) so it knows you’re human, not prey.

  3. Don’t make eye contact.
    That can be seen as a challenge.

  4. Back away slowly.
    Move sideways if possible — it’s less threatening and lets you keep an eye on the bear.

  5. Make yourself look big.
    Raise your arms, open your jacket, or stand on a rock/log if needed.

  6. Never approach a bear.
    Especially not cubs — a mother bear will defend them aggressively.

  7. 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.

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Police/Fire/EMS

Suffern Police Check ATMs for Skimmers, Report No Threats Detected

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1 week ago

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April 11, 2026

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The Suffern Police Department Detective Bureau, in partnership with the Rockland County Intelligence Center, recently conducted a proactive sweep of 35 local businesses to check for ATM and credit card skimming devices. No devices were detected.

Skimming devices are illegal tools used by criminals to capture payment card information during legitimate transactions—often without the victim’s knowledge. This stolen data can then be used to commit fraud and identity theft.

Proactive enforcement efforts like this play a critical role in safeguarding the community by preventing financial crimes before they occur and protecting both residents and local businesses. The Suffern Police Department remains committed to staying ahead of emerging threats and ensuring the continued safety and security of the community.

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Police/Fire/EMS

Clarkstown Appoints James S. Fay Jr. as New Police Chief, Effective April 2026

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1 week ago

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April 11, 2026

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New City, NY — Supervisor George Hoehmann and the Town Board have appointed Capt. James S. Fay, Jr. as the next Chief of Police for the Town of Clarkstown, effective April 24, 2026.

He will succeed Jeffrey Wanamaker, who is retiring after an impressive 39-year career with the Clarkstown Police Department, including serving as Chief since 2021. The Town plans to formally recognize Wanamaker’s service later this month.

About Incoming Chief James S. Fay, Jr.

Capt. Fay brings 32 years of experience within the Clarkstown Police Department, with a career spanning both operational and administrative leadership:

  • Specialized Units & Investigations
    • Narcotics and organized crime investigations
    • Investigator with the Rockland County Narcotics Task Force
    • Established and led the Street Crime Unit
    • Served in the Juvenile Aid Bureau, handling sensitive cases involving children and family court
  • Emergency & Tactical Experience
    • Over a decade with the Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT)
    • First responder at the September 11 terrorist attacks
  • Leadership Roles
    • Supervised patrol operations and field training
    • Oversaw Special Operations (K-9, Traffic, Anti-Crime)
    • Currently serves as Operations Captain, overseeing Patrol, Detectives, and Special Operations
  • Labor & Community Involvement
    • Former executive leader in the Police Benevolent Association
    • Founding member of the Greater Nanuet Chamber of Commerce Board
    • Graduate of Leadership Rockland

Supervisor Hoehmann praised both leaders, expressing gratitude to Chief Wanamaker for his decades of service and confidence in Fay as a “true public servant” committed to the department and community.

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