Back packers, campers and wilderness seekers are bound to eventually bump into various forms of wildlife, including bears. According to the North American Bear Center, bear attacks on humans are a rare occurrence.
Although bears have had a bad rap, they are unpredictable wild animals. Grizzlies and polar bears are more dangerous than black bears because they’re more aggressive and less likely to be afraid of humans.
Reasons Bears Attack
Bears are more likely to attack if they feel threatened, surprised or are trying to protect their young. Bears adjusted to people and campsites can be particularly dangerous because they’re unafraid, and may believe humans are competing with their food source.
In rare instances, bears may see humans as a food source. This is more likely to occur in remote areas or with young bears that have not been exposed to people.
Keep Food Separate from Campsite
Ideally food should be hanging 4 meters (12 feet) up in a tree up and/or in bear proof containers away from the campsite. Cook far away from the tent and change clothes and wash with an unscented soap after cooking to get rid of food scents.
Never bring food into the tent. If a bear does enter the tent, use a flashlight in its eyes and make as much noise as possible. Look for any way out and if there’s time, climb high into a tree.
Make Noise
Since bears don’t like to be surprised, make plenty of noise if the way ahead is hidden from view. Use bear bells, whistles, sing or speak in a loud voice to let the bears know people are coming. If they hear humans coming ahead of time, they’ll have the option of hiding rather than confronting.
Look for Signs of Bears
Watch for signs of possible bear activity including tracks and dead carcasses. It’s possible bears will come back to feed if there’s a carcass present. If they see humans approaching it, they may fight for their food. Stay away from any areas there is evidence of bear activity.
Bears are most likely to be along cliffs, near game, water or in thick dark forests. If possible, stay clear of these areas. Also, use caution when picking berries because bears love eating them and could be nearby.
Stay Away from Bear Cubs
Although bear cubs may look cute, stay clear of them because it’s a sure sign the mother bear is near. Bears are fiercely protective of their young and will attack if they feel their cubs are threatened.
Never Travel Alone
It’s safer to hike in groups for protection from bears. Keep a close eye on children and never let them wander away alone.
What to Do if a Bear Does Attack
- If a bear is still at a distance, talk so they’ll realize what they’re seeing is a person. Do everything possible to appear bigger such as raising and waving arms and back packs. Then, walk away slowly. Running may trigger a chase response.
- Once the bear pounces and there appears no way out, roll in a ball and protect the face and neck with hands and elbows. Continue to stay as still as possible, and don’t make eye contact with the bear. If the bear continues to attack and there’s no bear spray handy, fight back in any way possible. Aim for the head or eyes.
- If the bear attacks and pepper spray is available, aim for the face. Since many people panic when a bear charges, it’s best to practice reaching and spraying this bear deterrent ahead of time.
There’s no reason to believe bears are lurking at every corner, but it’s also sensible to be prepared for a possible bear encounter.
Sources:
"Bear Safety Tips", UDAP Industries, Inc. website (udap.com)
"Why do Bears Attack Humans?", Appalachian Bear Rescue blog (ABRblog) on wordpress.com
"How to Survive a Bear Encounter", CBC News Online, June 6, 2005 (online).
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