How to Survive a Bear Encounter

Bear Encounters: Your Guide to Staying Safe

Running into a bear in the woods? Scary, right? But don't worry! Knowing what to do can make all the difference. This guide will teach you how to stay safe around bears.

Understanding Bear Behavior

Bears aren't all the same. Black bears are usually shy and want to avoid you. But a mama bear with cubs? That's a different story. Grizzly bears (brown bears) are HUGE and powerful. While they usually avoid people, a surprise meeting could be dangerous.

• Signs a bear's been around: poop, footprints, scratches on trees, messed-up rocks and logs, and plants knocked over.
• Bear's getting nervous: huffing, jaw-popping, pawing the ground, standing on its hind legs (not always aggressive!), and charging.
• Bear's angry: charging straight at you, staring intensely, growling, showing teeth, and trying to hit or bite you.

Knowing these signs helps you stay safe. But the best defense? Preventing a meeting in the first place.

Preventing Bear Encounters

The best way to avoid trouble is to be prepared. Here's how:

1. Stick together: Bears are less likely to bother a group.
2. Make some noise: Talk, sing, or use bear bells. This lets bears know you're coming. It's especially important in thick woods.
3. Store your food properly: Never leave food, toothpaste, sunscreen, or trash out. Use bear-resistant containers or hang food from a tree the right way. Improper food storage is a HUGE problem.
4. Clean up after yourselves: Take everything away from your campsite. No tempting smells!
5. Keep a clean camp: Cook far from where you sleep. Wash your dishes far away, too. And dispose of garbage properly.
6. Pay attention: Watch where you're going and look for signs of bears. Avoid places where bears are often seen.
7. Carry bear spray: It really works! Know how to use it before you need it. Practice!
8. Never feed a bear: This is extremely dangerous. It makes bears used to people, which is bad for both bears and people.

What to Do if You See a Bear

Stay calm. Your actions depend on the bear's behavior.

If the bear doesn't see you:

• Slowly back away: Don't make sudden moves. Keep eye contact and talk calmly.
• Give it space: Let the bear go on its way.

If the bear sees you and seems curious or scared:

• Raise your arms: Make yourself look bigger.
• Talk calmly: Let it know you're human.
• Slowly back away: Don't run!
• Get your bear spray ready: Point it at the bear.

If a bear attacks:

Bear attacks are rare. But here's what to do:

Defensive attack (most common):

• Play dead: Lie flat, spread your legs, and protect your head and neck. Stay still until the bear leaves. Don't fight back.

Predatory attack (very rare):

• Fight back hard: Use anything you can – rocks, sticks, bear spray – to defend yourself. Aim for its face.

Important: Even if you don't feel hurt, get medical attention after a bear attack.

After a Bear Encounter

Report the incident to park rangers or wildlife officials. This helps keep others safe. Sharing your experience can help others, too.

Remember, bear encounters are a part of being in bear country. But with knowledge, preparation, and responsible behavior, you can greatly reduce your risk and still enjoy the outdoors. Be safe!

More Information

Want to learn more? Check out:

• National Park Service (NPS) – look for park-specific advice.
• U.S. Forest Service
• Your state's wildlife agency
• Bear safety classes

Your safety depends on you. Be aware, be prepared, and have a great time outdoors!