Bear Encounter Countermeasures: Surge in Consultation Inquiries from Corporations and Municipalities Amid National Bear Sightings

Bouken Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Ogaki City, Gifu Prefecture; CEO: Atsuo Umeki) has announced a significant increase in inquiries and consultations from corporations and local governments regarding bear countermeasures, driven by the rising frequency of bear sightings and incidents across Japan.

Recently, reports of human casualties and sightings in urban areas have become frequent. Bear countermeasures have become a critical crisis management priority not only in mountainous regions but also at tourist sites, lodging facilities, factories, golf courses, and solar power plants. Since the beginning of 2025, news coverage on bear-related incidents has surged, reflecting heightening social concern.

In response to this background, Bouken has seen a rise in specific consultations, such as bear sightings near facilities, strengthening safety for night patrols, employee safety training, and the implementation of AI-based monitoring systems.

While traditional bear measures often focused on post-incident response by local governments or hunting associations, there is now a growing interest in 'preventative' measures to stop accidents before they happen. Bouken's lineup of solutions includes the 'BE ALERT' AI monitoring system, the 'IKAZUCHI' portable deterrent device, and the 'KUMA911' bear repellent spray (scheduled for release in mid-June).

By combining AI camera detection technology with sound and light-based deterrent techniques, the company aims to minimize the risk of encounters. The company received numerous inquiries at the 'Local Government & Public Week' exhibition held at Tokyo Big Sight in May, highlighting nationwide interest. Bouken remains committed to developing products and sharing information to solve this pressing social issue.