- Keep
calm and know your options. Your next move can make all the
difference. Try to gauge the bear’s reaction to you before
deciding what to do. A calm bear may only be curious, an
agitated, drooling bear may be about to charge.
- Avoid
direct eye contact and speak in a soft, monotone voice. If
in a group, stay together. Never turn your back, and
never run from a bear, back away slowly.
- If a
bear charges, stand your ground. Bears often bluff
charge several times before leaving.
- If the
bear makes contact, play dead. Curl into a ball or
lie flat, covering your neck with your hands and arms. If
you have a backpack, leave it on for added
protection.
- If a
bear swats you, roll with it. Stay face down, do not move,
and do not look or make a sound until you believe it is
gone. Many people have survived bear attacks using this
method.
- Shooting a charging bear is very difficult and the
bear often lives long enough to maul the shooter. A wounded
bear can be very dangerous. Bear pepper spray has
been effective in deterring a charging bear.
|
