Close Call/Serious Incident
Location: Private Woodlot behind Campbell River
Date of Incident: October 21, 2016
Details of Incident: Burning crew had a unique wildlife encounter.
Worker approached burn pile, walked around pile searching for the best location to start fire.
Worker determined that the best spot to light fire was to climb into middle of pile through a large opening that would gain access to dry fines to start fire.
Worker entered pile through large hole in side of pile, and encountered a black bear that was sleeping in the dry, sheltered area of pile.
Bear took off, putting a scare into the worker.
Worker was not harmed or hurt, but certainly shaken up by the close call.
Recommended Preventative Actions:
Be sure to make lots of noise as you approach what could be a temporary wildlife den. Also a good idea to honk truck horn as you enter burning blocks.
Bear Spray should be close at hand.
Workers should assess piles for potential bear/animal shelters.
Always be aware of many hazards that burn piles can represent.
This isn't such an isolated occurrence. I know of someone else who had this happen last fall.
My recommendation, however, would be that you do not carry a can of bear mace while burning. Knowing how often my pants are steaming and hot, with sparks flying everywhere, I wouldn't feel safe with a can of explosive aerosol on my belt. I do, however, carry a large hunting knife in case a bear comes running out of a pile at me.
Honking the truck horn may be ineffective, especially since we sometimes need to use ATV's or sleds to get into blocks. Perhaps wearing a bear bell is also a good recommendation.
