Video shows bear trying to escape California heat by chilling in a backyard jacuzzi
It's not just humans who have had it with the sweltering summer heat. The bears have had it too.
With temperatures hitting record-breaking levels in Southern California, a bear decided to beat the heat by taking a dip in a jacuzzi.
Video footage from the incident, shared by the Burbank Police Department, shows the bear sitting on a bench in the tub and cooling off. In the background, you can hear someone say, "I don't blame him."
Watch the video below.
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Report of a bear sighting
Police responded to a report of a bear sighting on Friday afternoon in a residential neighborhood in Burbank, about 10 miles north of Los Angeles. When the officers arrived, they spotted a bear chilling in a jacuzzi behind one of the homes, said police in a statement.
After a short dip, the bear climbed over a wall and headed to a tree behind the home, police said, adding that they monitored the situation with the assistance of the Burbank Animal Shelter and California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
The bear was last seen peacefully sleeping in a tree the same evening, police said, so officials and animal control left the area.
Still, Burbank police have issued multiple warnings for residents to avoid bears and to keep all garbage and food locked up to discourage bears from coming to their residences.
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What to do if you spot a bear
While bears are not known to be particularly aggressive towards humans, the National Park Service suggests keeping a few things in mind in case of a bear encounter.
Here are some of their top tips:
- Talk in a low, steady voice and do not scream or otherwise act suddenly.
- Make yourself appear as large as possible.
- Travel in groups and pick up small children upon sighting a bear.
- If you encounter a bear in your own yard, do not leave the house. Ensure everyone is secure inside before banging pots or making other loud noises to scare the bear away.
- Carry a bear spray. But learn how to use it properly.
- If you see cubs, be extra cautious. Mother bears are very protective of their young. Do not approach, touch or interact with cubs.