Surviving A Bear Attack

They are an extremely rare occurrence, but bear attacks do happen. You never know when you might unexpectedly find yourself face to face with a bear. Most bear encounters do not result in an attack, but precautions should be taken just the same. It is better to be prepared, than to be left defenseless.

When confronted with a bear, try to determine whether it is a black bear or a grizzly, this will direct your plan of defense. If you are able, stop, quickly and quietly back off and walk away from the animal, talking in a low tone the entire time. If it is a female with cubs nearby, try not to come between them, as this will only upset the female and make her more likely to attack.

If the bear is a grizzly, you should try to find a tall tree to climb, and get as high up as possible. Although it is not known as a climber, never underestimate the abilities of a grizzly. If you startle a grizzly, and it attacks without warning, your best option is to play dead. One possible position to take would be to lie face down, hands clasped behind the neck, and legs spread apart. Keep your backpack on, if you have one, as it will provide extra protection to your body. The clasped hands will protect your neck from bites, and the spread legs will prevent the bear from rolling you over. Another position to take would require you to lie in a fetal position with your hands clasped behind your neck. In either position, you should remain perfectly still, without making a sound, and wait until the bear has left the area before getting up.

If the bear is a black bear, do not climb a tree. Black bears are excellent climbers, and your efforts will be in vain. You must fight back as hard as you can, your life will depend on it. You must fight because a black bear only attacks if is starving, injured, or somehow provoked, and will fight with a vengeance. Playing dead or climbing a tree will not stop these types of attacks.

Another option for warding off an attack is to use bear spray or pepper spray. However, this option should only be used as a last resort. The effectiveness of pepper spray cannot be guaranteed in this sort of situation. Air horns are also an option, although you must be prepared in case this tactic does not work.