GLENWOOD SPRINGS, Colo. (AP) — U.S. Forest Service officials are telling Aspen-area campers to lock up their food to keep bears away.

Forest Service officials said Wednesday that visitors to the Aspen-Sopris Ranger District's developed recreation sites and the Lincoln Creek and Castle Creek designated dispersed campsites are being ordered to store all food, cooking equipment, cooking utensils and coolers in a bear-resistant container, such as a closed, locked vehicle or bear box.

Violators could face fines of up to $5,000 and six months of imprisonment.

Extreme drought conditions have led bears to roam closer to humans in search of food. Bears can be attracted by food odors but also the scent of soap, toothpaste, cooking oil and dirty dish water.