Yell if you have to

Page 5

Dear Editor:

In the past two weeks or so, there have been bear attacks in western Canada and in one case it has been deadly. My sincerest condolences to the family for their tragic loss. I am a member of the Wet'suwet'en Nation of central British Columbia and upon hearing of these attacks I wanted to share a message about bears that was passed onto us by our Elders.

I clearly remember our Elders saying "Never make-fun of being charged by a bear." Why? Because they believed that it would happen. They also stressed to young women that if at all possible, "not" to go into the forest during menstruation.

The Elders also said to "make noise" by talking loud or even yelling out occasionally so that you won't surprise a bear. These are some factors shared to us by Elders that may definitely lessen the chances of being charged by a bear!

Gary R George

Houston, B.C.