Residents in Buncombe County are reporting an increase in interactions between humans and bears rummaging for food in the aftermath of Helene.

Unattended donation dropoffs, the smell of rotting food in damaged homes and businesses, and food availability in trash bags in the aftermath of Helene have attracted more bears to residential areas, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission said in a press release this week.

The commission recommends taking precautions to decrease their chances of encountering a bear.

That includes securing food in bear-resistant trash cans, putting padlocks on outside refrigerators and freezers and keeping doors and windows locked if a bear is seen in your area. For those unable to lock their doors and windows due to damage, making an unwelcome mat of nails and plywood can discourage bears from entering, officials said.

Community members can also make their trash can bear-resistant by drilling holes into the trash can lid to secure it shut using hasps or straps, authorities said. For instructions on creating a bear-proof trash can, go here: Make your trashcan bear-resistant.

The commission also recommends applying a few “BearWise Basics” to keep the animals away from you and your loved ones. These include not feeding bears, not leaving pet food outside, removing bird feeders when bears are active, and keeping your dog on a leash or leaving it at home.

Contact the N.C. Wildlife Helpline at 866-318-2401 or HWI@ncwildlife.org to report worrisome bear behavior. Calls will be received Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.