How to Survive an Encounter With a Bear

Bear attacks are extremely rare, but it's best to be prepared. Almost all bear attacks involve encounters with mothers and their cubs. Never approach a bear cub, cute and cuddly as it may be.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Bear Attacks : Their Causes And Avoidance (book)
• Bear Encounter Survival Guide
• Backpacks
• Bear Safety Devices
• Sleeping Bags
• Sleeping Pads
• Tents

1. Remain calm if you spot a bear; avoid sudden movements.
2. Back away slowly, avoid eye contact, and speak to the bear in a calm, quiet voice. Running might trigger a chase response, and you're not going to outrun a bear.
3. Throw something onto the ground (for example, a camera) if the bear pursues you, as this may distract the bear and allow you to escape.
4. Keep your backpack on; it may protect your body if you're attacked.
5. Don't climb a tree. Black bears can climb trees, and trees found in grizzly country generally have weak trunks and lack low branches.
6. Drop to the ground in the fetal position with your hands behind your neck if attacked. Stay silent and don't move.
7. Roll with the bear's blows and return to your motionless fetal position.
8. Stay quiet and motionless for at least 20 minutes once the bear leaves. Bears will often watch from a distance and return at the first sign of movement.
9. Fight back only as a last resort if the bear persists. You'll have the best luck fighting back against a black bear. If you can get to your feet, strike it in the eyes or on the snout as you slowly back away.

Tips & Warnings

• Black bears and grizzly bears are very different animals, with grizzlies being responsible for most bear-attack fatalities. Black bears are less likely to attack and more likely to go through your garbage.
• Learn and obey the rules and regulations of the wilderness and other areas you're hiking in.
• Some hikers who have been confronted by aggressive bears have reported success with pepper spray.
• Don't climb a tree if you encounter a bear. Black bears can climb trees, and trees found in grizzly and brown bear country generally have weak trunks and lack low branches.