The Hollidaysburg Area School District announced that the state Game Commission has placed a bear trap in the wooded area directly behind the baseball building at the Senior High near Fox Hollow Development following a confirmed sighting near the school campuses.

While the goal is to safely relocate the bear, the district warns residents that these traps are powerful and the area must be treated with extreme caution. In addition, these bear traps are designed to attract the bear to the trap, so it is possible the bruin will be seen again near the campus.

In issuing the notice to local families, the school district announced the following safety guidelines, noting that the trail system and woods will remain closed while officials attempt to trap the bear.

– Keep Your Distance: Do not approach, touch or attempt to look inside the traps. They are triggered by movement and bait; getting too close is dangerous for you and may interfere with the relocation process.

– Stay Out of the Woods: The trail system and wooded perimeter behind the athletic fields are strictly off-limits until further notice.

– Supervise Children: Ensure students are picked up promptly after school and are not playing near the tree line or back parking lots.

If you see a bear before it is trapped, remember these “Bear Aware” basics:

– Don’t Run: Running can trigger a chase instinct.

– Back Away Slowly: Keep your eyes on the bear (without staring directly into its eyes) and move away toward a building or vehicle.

– Make Noise: Talk calmly but firmly so the bear knows you are human and not prey.

– Do Not Feed: Never leave food, backpacks, or trash outside, as this attracts wildlife to school grounds.

The Game Commission will be monitoring the traps daily and the school district will issue a “clear” notification via ParentSquare as soon as the trap is removed and the area is deemed safe for normal activity.

Those who spot a bear on or near school property should immediately notify the front office or a member of the security team.