Key Leaders Gather for Three Days of Uninterrupted Discussions
The G7 summit, taking place this week in the picturesque Canadian Rockies region of Kananaskis, has implemented a comprehensive security plan to safeguard world leaders from the numerous bears inhabiting the area. Among those attending are U.S. President Donald Trump, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and French President Emmanuel Macron.
Advanced Security Measures in Place
Sheena Campbell, a spokesperson for the Alberta Provincial Public Safety Ministry, confirmed that brown bears pose a significant concern. However, she assured that the security team is well-prepared to handle any wildlife encounters.
- High-voltage electric fences: Installed around areas where animal attractants, such as food storage sites, are present.
- Drones: Deployed by law enforcement to monitor wildlife activity in real-time.
- Thermal cameras: Utilized to detect wildlife, including bears, pumas, moose, mountain goats, and deer.
- Police dogs: Trained specifically to confront bears.
Campbell mentioned that, just last week, drones and security personnel detected brown and black bears, pumas, moose, mountain goats, and deer in the vicinity. For security reasons, further details were not disclosed.
Bear Activity and Precautions
According to the Canadian newspaper Globe and Mail, a “bear alert” issued in May remains active for the Kananaskis golf course, located beneath the hotel where leaders are gathering. The report also states that approximately 65 brown bears reside in Kananaskis, prompting the closure of certain areas following reports of aggressive behavior by a mother bear with two cubs.
Parks Canada, the organization managing Canadian parks, advises that most bear encounters conclude without injuries. However, if a bear attacks, they recommend the following course of action:
- Play dead: Lie flat on the ground and avoid moving unless the bear continues its advance.
- Defend yourself: If the bear persists in its aggression, it is advised to intimidate the bear by shouting, throwing objects, or making yourself appear as large and intimidating as possible.
Key Questions and Answers
- What measures are being taken to protect world leaders at the G7 summit?
Advanced security measures include high-voltage electric fences, drones for real-time wildlife monitoring, thermal cameras, police dogs trained to confront bears, and additional patrols by law enforcement.
- Which wildlife species pose a concern at the summit location?
The primary concerns are brown bears, pumas, moose, mountain goats, and deer.
- What precautions should be taken if encountering a bear?
If a bear approaches, it is recommended to play dead by lying flat on the ground and avoiding movement. If the bear continues its aggression, intimidate it by shouting, throwing objects, or appearing as large and intimidating as possible.
