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Ladysmith bear sighting prompts school to issue letter to parents

École North Oyster Elementary sent a letter to parents and caregivers on Thursday warning of a bear sighting in the south end of Ladysmith.
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École North Oyster Elementary sent a letter to parents and caregivers on Thursday warning of a bear sighting in the south end of Ladysmith.

“I was notified of a bear sighting in the vicinity of Davis Road School around Arbutus Crescent and Dogwood Road,” wrote Principal Jacqueline Dunn. “The RCMP and Conservation office have been notified. We are ensuring that the families of all children who walk home in the direction of the bear sighting are notified.”

The letter, which was posted on social media, included tips and information for parents to review with children such as walking in groups, not running or playing in areas with dense brush and “if you encounter a bear and have food in your backpack, drop your backpack and move away from the bear.”

Education about bears was also emphasized because each encounter is unique.

Conservation officer Stuart Bates told the Chronicle earlier this month that a bear spotted in the same area of town had charged two of his colleagues.

It’s not clear if more recent sightings prompted the communication to parents.

A Nanaimo-Ladysmith School District 68 spokesperson said no other schools in Ladysmith issued letters to parents regarding the bear.





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