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2.When you see
a bear, there is slight danger at the "Distance of Comfort"
for a bear: over 50 yards. If it is approaching, make sure it sees
you, and stand abreast to show party size. Raise hands and yell.
Circle to upwind position. Bear can't identify by sight as well as
scent.
3.If bear is encountered at close
range, slowly raise arms, talk in loud voice, move slowly away toward
clearing. Keep bear in sight. Keep backing away if it continues
approach. Looking to the side is submissive gesture and might appease
a dominant bear. Stand your ground but yell if it is coming fast.
Throw pack or other article toward it. Don't fall and play dead until
it is closer than 10 steps. Bears often halt or veer from what
appears to be a charge at just a few steps away. If it is a black
bear, fight back; don't play dead.
4.Place food out of boat and away from
tents at night.
5.Protection: Pepper spray cannisters
are effective at close range in many cases. They are forbidden on
most passenger flights, though. Don't smuggle it on with your luggage.
A burst cannister has caused at least one plane crash. Many carry
firearms. Best choice is short-barrel pump action 12 gauge shotgun
shooting ounce and a quarter slugs. If you don't know safety and how
to shoot, you and your party are in much more danger from the gun
than the bear.
(This article is contributed by
Eruk's Wilderness - Editor.)
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