How to Avoid a Bear Attack

Even though bear attacks are rare, take caution when you are hiking, playing or camping in an area where bears live. Talk to rangers, hikers and campers about recent bear activity. Be constantly alert to your surroundings because surprising a bear is the number one reason for bear attacks. Prepare in advance to avoid a bear attack.

Instructions

  1. Food Tips

    • 1

      Put your food in a "bear bag" that ties shut to avoid a bear attack. A laundry bag works well.

    • 2

      Tie a rope to the bear bag and toss the rope over a limb of a tree that is about 14 feet above the ground. Allow the bag to hang 4 feet out from the trunk of the tree, and tie the end of the rope to the bottom part of the tree to hold the bag in place.

    • 3

      Eat outside of your tent so food doesn't lure a bear into your sleeping area.

    • 4

      Change your clothes before going to sleep in your tent. A bear may smell food on your clothing, so don't leave your dirty clothes inside the tent.

    Prepare and Protect Yourself

    • 5

      Purchase bear repellent or deterrent spray, and wear it in a chest or hip holster. The spray is available online or at businesses that sell camping goods.

    • 6

      Use out-dated spray or inert cans to practice drawing the spray and shooting it before you get in the bear area. Spray bear repellent only when you're sure you can hit the bear's face.

    • 7

      Stay in your tent if the bear is in your camp area and it's not possible to escape the area safely. Carry a whistle and make noise any way possible to frighten a bear away.

    • 8

      Avoid eye contact with a bear and don't get between a mother bear and her cubs.

    • 9

      Back away from a bear slowly; don't turn your back on a bear. Running from a bear can evoke a chase response.

    • 10

      Fall on your face and lay flat on the ground if a grizzly bear charges you and you're unable to get away.

    • 11

      Allow the bear room to retreat to avoid a bear attack. Don't panic or move suddenly, and remain quiet to create a less threatening situation.