Numerous reports of a young bear roaming the streets of uptown Kingston prompt a warning to stay away from the animal. YNN's Alexandra Weishaupt has more on the sightings.

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KINGSTON, N.Y. -- "I kind of think it’s wild, but believable," said Troi North, a Kingston resident.

A series of bear sightings was reported in Uptown Kingston Saturday.

"Around 1:00 p.m. we got several calls for a bear up near the area around Forsyth Park, Lucas Avenue and shortly after Millers Lane and around that area," said Sergeant Kirk Strand.

Strand says it is not uncommon for a bear to be out and about in these parts this time of year.

"Its always that uptown area, the wooded areas they come out, wander around a little bit," said Strand.

And at Forsyth Park, the alleged bear sighting frightened many who frequent the playground.

"It’s a little disturbing to think a bear might be roaming around where my kid is," said Oliver Lodge, Kingston resident.

Lodge lives near the park and often brings his son to play. He says he sees coverage about bears on the loose, but has never had it hit so close to home.

"I know there are wooded areas around here but there’s still a lot of cars and people so I wouldn’t expect to find a bear within a quarter of a mile from my house," said Lodge.

"I would find it pretty scary to take my son to a park knowing there was a bear sighting," said Lisa Kulaski, visitor.

Lisa Kulaski visiting from Delhi says as a mom she’s alarmed by the news.

"I would be a little more on the cautious side and just watch him and make sure things are safe," said Kulaski.

And according to the DEC's website, there are many steps people can take to make sure things are safe not just in the parks, but all over uptown Kingston.

People are advised to put bird feeders away and secure outdoor garbage cans, barbecue grills should be cleaned and stored in a safe place, feed family pets indoors and if you see a bear, don't panic, and never approach it.

"Leave the bear alone and it will move on its way," said Strand.

"They’re amongst us, you've got to respect them. You just cant be afraid of life. Its life," said North.