What to do about Grizzly Bears
It’s hiking season. Bears are out of hibernation and likely to have a cub or two. Encountering a grizzly bear can be extremely dangerous. Know how to avoid and survive an attack.
Avoiding an Encounter
Stay Alert: be aware of your surroundings, especially in bear habitats like dense forests, near rivers, or berry patches.
Travel in Groups: hike in groups and make noise to avoid surprising a bear. Clap, talk loudly, or sing.
Keep Food Secure: store food in bear-proof containers or hang it high in trees away from your campsite.
Avoid Smelly Items: don’t hike with scented items, including food, deodorants, and perfumes.
Carry Bear Spray: always carry bear spray and know how to use it. Keep it easily accessible.
If You Encounter a Grizzly Bear
Stay Calm: Do not run. Running may trigger the bear’s predatory instinct.
Identify Yourself: speak calmly and slowly wave your arms. This helps the bear recognize you as a human.
Back Away Slowly: move slowly sideways, keeping an eye on the bear without making direct eye contact. Leave the area or take a detour. If this is impossible, wait until the bear moves away. Always leave the bear an escape route.
Do Not Climb Trees: grizzlies are excellent climbers and this action could provoke an attack.
Be especially cautious if you see a female with cubs: never place yourself between a mother and her cub, and never attempt to approach them. The chances of an attack escalate greatly if she perceives you as a danger to her cubs.
If a Bear Charges: Stand Your Ground! Many bear charges are bluff charges. Stand still and prepare your bear spray.
When to Use Bear Spray: if the bear comes within 30 feet, use your bear spray. Aim slightly downward to create a cloud that the bear has to pass through.
If a Bear Attacks
Play Dead: if a grizzly bear attacks defensively, lie face down, cover your neck with your hands, and spread your legs to make it harder for the bear to flip you over. Remain still until the bear leaves.
Fight Back: if the bear shows signs of stalking or attacks at night, it may be a predatory attack. In this case, fight back with all your might using any available objects, aiming for the bear's face and muzzle.
Being prepared and knowing these steps can significantly increase your chances of safely avoiding and surviving a grizzly bear encounter.
For more information:
National Park Service: https://www.nps.gov/subjects/bears/safety.htm
U.S. Forest Service: https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/know-before-you-go/bears
BearSmart: https://www.bearsmart.co
