What to do If you encounter a black bear…

If you encounter a black bear…

…In A Building, By A Dumpster, Or Around The Corner

Give the bear a clear escape route (do not corner it).

Leave any doors open as you back away from the bear.

Do not lock the bear in a room.

…In Your Backyard

From a safe distance, make loud noises, shout, or bang pots and pans together to scare away the bear.

When the bear leaves, remove potential attractants such as garbage, bird seed, or pet food.

Ask neighbors to remove attractants.

Check your yard for bears before letting out your dog.

…In The Woods

If you see a bear before it notices you: stand still, don’t approach and enjoy the moment. Then move away quietly in the opposite direction.

If you encounter a bear that’s aware of you: don’t run; running may trigger a chase response. Back away slowly in the opposite direction and wait for the bear to leave.

Keep reading to find out what to do if a bear approaches, follows or charges you. Watch Staying Safe in Bear Country (see below) for an in-depth look at bear behavior and detailed information on how to respond to different types of interactions and encounters with both black bears and grizzly bears.

Carry Bear Spray & Know How To Use It

Keep bear spray accessible; it’s proven to be the easiest and most effective way to deter a bear that threatens you. It doesn’t work like bug repellent, so never spray your tent, campsite or belongings. Learn more about bear spray.