Preventing Bear Attacks
How to Avoid Being Attacked in Bear Country
The first and most obvious method is not approaching a bear for any reason what so ever. Many tourists become fascinated with bears and will get too close to the bear and its habitat. This is when a bear is likely to attack the tourist. The advice is particularly relevant when bear cubs are around as the mother is very protective of its young. So if you are going bear viewing avoid doing it out of mating season.
Another important element is ensuring that you never startle the bear as this may cause it to suddenly attack you. When hiking through the national parks or forests always ensure you are making noise as you move. This way a bear will have plenty of advanced warning to get out of your way and will not be startled. A common method used to make this noise is to buy a bunch of small bells and tie them to a backpack or onto your clothes.
In bear country you must be very careful with food as a bear may attack to acquire any food you have in your possession. It is advisable to never leave food around and do not store any food in a tent as the bear may break into your tent just to get the food.
Whenever you are in an area that has bears it is sensible to prepare yourself for the eventuality that a bear may attack despite your efforts. Most shops in bear country sell pepper spray and you should carry some of this with you at all times. It can be used to scare a bear of if it decides to attack.
If a bear does approach you, you should walk calmly away without running as this may only further provoke the bear. If it continues to approach you and looks aggressive you should try throwing stones at the bear as this may scare it away.
As an absolute last resort you should play dead and curl up into a foetal position. The bear may lose interest and it will also serve to provide some protection to important parts of your body.
Hopefully with this advice you will find yourself having a safe and enjoyable time in the presence of bears.
Published by jamie holmes
I'm Jamie and I am a student who wants to write interesting articles for others to read. View profile
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