The Fish & Game Department is advising fishermen, campers, hikers and people who live in suburbs to take extra precautions this summer and to keep alert for bears in all areas of the nation where bears are known to frequent.

They are advising people to wear noise-producing devices such as little, bells on their clothing to alert (but not startle) the bears unexpectedly. They also advise carrying of pepper spray in case of an encounter with a bear.

It is also a good idea to watch for fresh signs of bear activity.

People should recognize the difference between black bear and grizzly bear droppings.

Black bear droppings are smaller and contain berries and possibly squirrel fur.

Grizzly bear droppings are larger, contain little bells and smell like pepper spray.