Bear Safety: Stay Smart in Bear Country
Spending time outdoors comes with responsibility, especially in bear country. Knowing what to do before and during an encounter can keep you safe.
Plan ahead by checking if bears are active in the area and pack essentials like bear spray. Travel in groups when possible and stay on marked trails. Keep your campsite clean and store food, garbage, and scented items well away from where you sleep.
If you see a bear, don’t panic. Stand your ground, make yourself look bigger, and speak in a calm, firm voice. Avoid direct eye contact and slowly back away. Never run, as it can trigger a chase response.
Being prepared and aware helps reduce risk and keeps wildlife wild. Respect their space, and they’ll usually respect yours.












