Bear Safety

Whether you are lost in the wilderness or brushing your teeth in a developed campsite, you never know when you will run into a bear. Actually, the closest I ever got to a full grown grizzly was while brushing my teeth at a campsite in Yosemite Valley. It was an arms length away and didn't care I was there. It just walked right by.

Every situation you encounter a bear is different. Once I was mountain biking down a mountain trail behind my friend. We were flying through a wooded area when a black bear came out of no where. It rand onto the trail between me and my friend and started chasing him on his bike. I quickly realized I was chasing the bear and hit the brakes. That was enough to startle the bear and he ran off back into the forest.

Below are some general rules to follow if you do happen to run into a bear.

1. Don't look the bear in the eye.
2. Back away slowly. Never turn your back and NEVER RUN!
3. If the bear begins to follow drop something to distract it; hat, bandana, anything but food!
4. If he charges, stand your ground. It's probably a roux.
5. If the bear doesn't turn or stop it's charge use bear spray. Bear spray is very dangerous and wind increases the danger. Make sure you know how to use it properly. If you use bear spray, it is likely you will get some on you too, so only use it if really needed.
6. If the bear does attack, and you don't have bear spray, lay face down with your hands locked behind your head protecting your neck. Play dead. Use your elbows and legs to keep the bear from turning you. Once the bear thinks the threat (you) is neutralized, he will likely leave.

Generally speaking, bears won't attack. However, there are some specific situations that they are more likely to at least charge.

1. Food: Bears often sit on a carcass until they can eat it all, sometimes days. They will protect it from any perceived threats.
2. Cubs: Mother bears are EXTREMELY protective. If found near or between a mother and her cubs you will most likely be attacked.
3. Humanized bears, that is bears that are not afraid of human, are more likely to attack.

These tips are not a guarantee that you will not be attacked or that you will survive an attack. The best type of bear safety is prevention and preparedness.

1. Always be aware of recent bear activity in your area. 
2. Know what to do if you run into a bear. 
3. Carry bear spray and know how to use it. 
4. Travel in groups. 
5. Use proper food storage. Never cook in camp.
6. Make a lot of noise when walking through dense vegetation.

As always, be smart and thrive.