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

Published

7 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

53rd Ramapo Police Youth Academy Graduation Ceremony Celebrates Class of 2026

Published

3 days ago

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May 8, 2026

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Congratulations to the 53rd Graduating Class of the Ramapo Police Youth Academy!

Tonight’s ceremony marked the culmination of weeks of hard work, discipline, teamwork, and dedication. Watching the cadets march onto the field was a proud moment for all involved and a true reflection of the commitment they demonstrated throughout the academy.

A special thank you to the Ramapo Town Board for their continued support of this program, as well as the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office and the Spring Hill Ambulance Corps for their participation in making this program such a success. Your partnership helps provide these young men and women with an unforgettable experience and valuable life lessons.

Congratulations again to the Class of 2026 — we are proud of each and every one of you!

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Police/Fire/EMS

Rockland County Welcomes New EMT Academy Graduates

Published

1 week ago

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May 4, 2026

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Rockland County is celebrating a new class of EMT Academy graduates as they prepare to begin their service in agencies across the region.

The graduates have successfully completed rigorous training, gaining the critical skills needed to respond to medical emergencies and provide life-saving care in high-pressure situations. Their achievement marks an important step in strengthening the county’s emergency medical services system.

Local officials and public safety leaders recognized the dedication and commitment required to complete the program, noting that these new EMTs will play a vital role in protecting the health and safety of residents throughout Rockland County.

As they join ambulance corps and emergency response teams, the graduates are expected to make an immediate impact in their communities.

Congratulations to all the graduates, and best wishes as they begin their careers in emergency medical services.

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