Oregon Public Broadcasting

A black bear attacked a woman late Sunday night outside of Sandy. Authorities say the woman surprised the animal on her porch.

The bear responded by swiping her across the arm, thigh, and foot, before running away.

The bear returned early Monday morning, but was frightened off again.

The  woman was treated for injuries that weren't considered life-threatening.

Rick Hargrave with Oregon Fish and Wildlife says that bear attacks are very rare. But he says animals that overcome their fear of people, can be very dangerous.

Rick Hargrave: “We want to make sure that we try to get this bear. We’ve   put a bear trap near the residence. Any aggressive bears, or bears that become habituated, or not afraid of humans, we will trap, and then put down.”

Hargrave says that if officials successfully trap a bear near the injured woman’s house, it's likely to be the bear that attacked. But, he says it’s impossible to know for sure.

State officials say the attack serves as a reminder to people who live in “bear country”  to ensure that food is kept inside, or else well-covered and at a safe distance from potentially curious and hungry bears.