How to Protect Yourself Against Bears

Summer is the best season for camping. The nights are long and warm and there’s always good conversation to be had around a fire. However, there’s always a danger of the wildlife intruding on your festivities. The campgrounds are home to many animals and should be respected as such, but no camper wants to encounter a bear in the middle of the night. There are ways to prevent bears from coming near the campsite and ways to protect oneself for those unavoidable encounters.

Try to avoid bears by staying away from their food sources. A bush of berries might sound like a good snack, but it’s also one for a bear. If you spot a bear but it has not noticed you, calmly walk away in the opposite direction. Once a bear spotted you, follow these tips.

Identify yourself by talking calmly so it can realize you’re human. Talk in low tones and keep your voice even. Pick up small children immediately because they look like food. Hike and travel in groups because the noise will deter a bear from traveling your way. Slowly move to higher ground and appear more threatening.

Always pack bear pepper spray, which can deter an aggressive charge or attack. To feel safe, possibly pack a knife but only use it in the direst situation. The pepper spray should be enough to stop a bear.