Bears!

We’ve all heard the stories, Foreign tourists getting up close for a picture with Mr. Smokey or attracting them with food. The fortunate get away with a scare and the others make headlines. For those of us who frequent the trails we know not to do anything THAT crazy. However, it is always good to have a reminder on what to do to keep yourself safe with bears.

The most important thing is to demonstrate awareness and respect. Bears are instinctive creatures. They don’t want to hurt you, but they don’t want to be hurt either. Here’s a couple tips on how to minimize danger in bear country. Remember, these are tips are for minimizing danger not eliminating it. They have been gathered from experts around NA.

Keep an Eye Open for Signs

Has that rock been turned over recently? Are there scratches on that tree? Hey, why was that stump torn open? What did I just step in? There are plenty of signs out there in bear country. Your job is to look for them and see how fresh they are… and then avoid them.


Make Noise
Walking stealthily down the trail may be fun, but could send you face to face with Yogi’s grumpy uncle. Chat, make noise, whatever it takes. Some suggest bear bells and/or whistles, but their effect is debated. Just make noise regularly so that any nearby bears know you’re coming.

Never Get Between A Sow and its Cub
A surefire way to get a mum angry is to make her feel like her cubs are threatened. Be Aware. If you see sow, look for a cub. If you see a cub, stop. Look around and find the mum (make noise of course) and slowly back away.

Never Run
Running from a bear will often trigger a chase response. They can run as fast as race horses. Even if the bear is charging you, remain calm. Most charges are false. They will usually stop 20 feet away if you don’t do anything.

Make Yourself Look Intimidating
Nobody wants to get hurt. If we see someone larger and stronger than us we will usually back down. Bears are the same. If you are being charged, shout at the top of your voice, raise your arms and look as big as you can.


Travel Together in Groups
Following the previous point about intimidation, you can understand how group travel helps. Watch for your kids. Keep them close. They want to race, but who do you want to run into the bear first? 

Distract Them
Yes, it’s a new backpack, but this is your life on the line! Throw that pack! Bears will often examine foreign objects like packs, clothes, etc. It can give you a chance to back away and get to safety.

DON’T Climb that Tree
Bears can climb… well. It won’t keep you safe, so don’t bother.

Bear Spray

Bear Spray is your last resort. It is only good for short range, but can send a bear packing. Just remember that you quite possibly will end up inhaling some of the chemicals and could end up packing yourself so save it for when you wont miss!

Know Your Bears
If a black bear is already attacking, you need to fight back. Aim for the nose and eyes. Grizzlies will sometimes loose interest if you play dead, but that’s not a guarantee.

BC Parks Bear Safety
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/misc/bears/bearsaf.html
US Parks Bear Safety
http://usparks.about.com/od/backcountry/a/Bear-Safety.htm
Alaska Parks Bear Safety
http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/safety/bears.htm