Victim of Bear Attack Calls for Enhanced Support and Preventive Measures in Hokkaido

Shinichiro Ando, who endured a harrowing bear attack in Sapporo's Higashi Ward in 2021, has publicly expressed his frustration regarding inadequate support for victims like himself. As bear encounters continue to escalate in Japan, with some leading to tragic outcomes, Ando emphasizes that the current public support systems do not sufficiently address the complexities of recovery for those who have suffered from these attacks.

On June 18, 2021, Ando was mauled by a brown bear while on his way to work, an incident that marked the first bear-related injury in that area since 1878. Unbeknownst to him, a bear had previously been spotted nearby. The unexpected attack left Ando with severe injuries, including broken ribs and a punctured lung, resulting in extensive medical treatment over six months. He still battles persistent pain and psychological trauma, which has made it challenging for him to maintain his daily activities.

Despite having his injuries acknowledged as a work-related accident, Ando still bears part of the financial burden due to the limits of national health insurance. He is calling for a more comprehensive support system for bear-attack victims similar to those available for natural disaster victims, highlighting the need for city officials to improve ways of alerting residents about bear sightings.

Currently, Sapporo city has updated its alert systems to inform residents of bear activity, yet Ando believes more robust measures are needed. He advocates for an emergency alert system akin to earthquake warnings, which would notify people promptly through their smartphones. Addressing the safety of both locals and visitors, Ando urges all individuals in bear-prone regions to remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings to prevent future tragedies like his own.