How to not to become lunch for a wild BEAR

While working in Alaska I came to Close with a black bear.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 
    

   You're face-to-face with a 400-pound black bear. It's huffing at you, swatting the ground with its forepaws. Do you know what to do?

2. If you work in drilling or any wilderness job, it's possible you'll face a bear. Bear encounters even occur in suburban neighborhoods. You can prevent these encounters from becoming serious attacks.

3. 
    

   A black bear normally avoids people. However, a bear who is startled while seeking food or with a cub is potentially very dangerous, and when it's huffing and swatting at the ground, it's saying you're too close for comfort.

4. 
    

   Stop, then slowly back up, without sudden movements.
   The bear may stand upright to see you better and make its warning noises. Continue to back away and give the bear its space.

5. If you are with other people, stay close together. As If there's a vehicle or building nearby, get inside.

6. 
    

   Make sure the bear has an escape route, then make yourself seem fearsome by yelling and waving your arms. Make as much noise as possible until the bear leaves.
   If you have pepper spray, use it only if the bear comes close.

7. 
    

   The (extremely rare) predatory black bear may not give warning of its intentions. Instead, it may stalk you, coming closer to decide if you are safe to attack. Convince the bear that you are not a safe target. Aggressively throw rocks or sticks, make loud noises, and continue backing up.

8. 
    

   Never turn and run. This triggers the bear's hunting response. Black bears have been clocked at 30 miles per hour, so they can easily outrun you. And don't climb a tree; a black bear will out-climb you. If the black bear contacts you, don't "play dead." Instead, grab any hard object and fight back.

9. 
    

   To avoid black bear encounters:
   
   Use steel bear-proof garbage containers.
   Don't leave meat, fish or any food where bears can smell it.
   Keep dogs close by. Dogs that wander off may attract a bear.
   If working alone, carry a cell phone and keep in regular contact with a supervisor.
   Carry a bear deterrent, and use noisemakers when you approach a corner in the trail.

10. The likelihood of a serious attack is slim. In the past 100 years, approximately 40 fatal attacks in North America have been recorded. But they are still possible, so be prepared.

[bossypants]

on 6/30/2009 I never realized this was a real danger, but there have been sightings not far from where I live! Your article may well be a life saver. Thanks!

[writedesign]

on 5/19/2009 Great tips on surviving an encounter with a wild bear. 5*

[guesswhat]

on 4/17/2009 Great article ....keep up the good work...I gave you 5 Stars and RR on 5 of your articles,very informational...ty ...Please return the favor..Al

[blueskye0707]

on 3/27/2009 Great article on How to not to become lunch for a wild BEAR! Hopefully I will never encounter one! 5*

[DoctorSnot]

on 3/27/2009 I like this article! Am glad to have read it -will know what to do if I ever encounter a bear now -thanks! 5 Stars!