Bear breaks into house, starts kitchen fire in Mount Crested Butte

CRESTED BUTTE, Colo. (KRDO) -- A bear broke into a home in Mount Crested Butte and started a fire in the kitchen, according to the Crested Butte Fire Protection District.

Officials say they responded to a residential structure fire and discovered the bear had entered the home and started a fire unintentionally. The fire was contained to the kitchen, and no injuries were reported.

Officials are reminding residents to stay alert and aware as bears become more active. They say to always lock doors and windows when the house is empty or overnight, and to secure any food or pet food and trash. They say cleaning up grills and food residue will help deter the bears.

The Crested Butte Fire Protection District told its residents to never approach a bear, and if residents do see or encounter a bear in or near their home, to contact law enforcement or Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

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