BURBANK, CALIF. – As temperatures soar during the scorching summer heat wave in Southern California, residents are seeking refuge in backyard pools to cool off. But it seems that humans are not the only ones finding solace in the water – even bears are getting in on the aquatic action.
Police in Burbank, a city located about 10 miles (16 kilometers) north of Los Angeles and close to the Verdugo Mountains, responded to a report of a bear sighting in a residential neighborhood. To their surprise, they discovered the wild animal taking a leisurely dip in a Jacuzzi situated behind one of the homes.
Captured on video, the bear seemed to be thoroughly enjoying its impromptu pool session, relishing the refreshing water amid the sweltering summer temperatures. After its relaxing soak, the bear gracefully climbed over a wall and made its way to a nearby tree behind the house, seemingly unperturbed by the attention it was garnering.
Burbank police issued a statement urging residents to exercise caution and avoid interacting with bears if they encounter them. They also advised residents to secure all garbage and food items properly to discourage bears from venturing into residential areas in search of sustenance.
Bear sightings in urban areas are not uncommon in California, especially during the summer months when the animals may wander into neighborhoods in search of food and water. Encounters between humans and bears can pose risks to both parties, and authorities emphasize the importance of giving bears ample space and not attempting to approach or feed them.
The Burbank Police Department’s proactive warnings are part of their effort to prevent potentially dangerous interactions between residents and bears. By ensuring that garbage and food are securely stored, residents can minimize the attraction of bears to residential areas, ultimately promoting the safety and well-being of both the bears and the community.
As bear habitats increasingly overlap with human-populated regions, it becomes crucial for residents to be vigilant and take appropriate measures to coexist harmoniously with wildlife. Respecting the natural behaviors and territories of wild animals is essential to fostering a safe environment for all inhabitants, human and animal alike.