Wildlife officials want you to be more bear aware and hope you don't leave your garbage out.
- Bear proof trash bins given to some homeowners
- Discount for Seminole County homeowners in June
- Officials hope weight of bin, lock keep bears out
- MORE COVERAGE: Visit our Florida Black Bears page
On Thursday morning, about 150 bear proof trash bins were given to every home in the Springs Landing subdivision in Longwood.
The Homeowners Association paid for the new trash cans with some money from homeowners and with grants.
Starting in June, homeowners in Seminole County can receive a discount on the bins. Some people may be able to get the trash cans for $40.
The Florida Wildlife Comimssion said the heavy weight of the bin and the lock on it will prevent bears from getting into trash.
Ed Cardetti, who has lived in the neighborhood for about 20 years, said his 15-year-old dog was attacked by a bear in his backyard.
Close up look at bear proof trash bins in one Seminole County neighborhood @MyNews13 pic.twitter.com/BzvMCS0qky
— Christina Jensen (@CJensenNews13) April 27, 2017
Cardetti said the area has become a hot spot for bears.
"I've had three bears on different occasions just napping in my backyard, just laying out there and sunbathing," said Cardetti.
The bears are also known to claw their way through his trash.
Wildlife officials believe the new trash bin could help Cardetti and others.
Two hands are required to open the lid of the bins.
"If they can't find the food then they will go somewhere else and go back to their natural way of eating,” said Cardetti.