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Grand Teton National Park & John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway Black Bear with mountain ash berries, photo by Rebecca Wiles
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Grand Teton National Park & John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway
Carry Bear Spray - Know How to Use It

Bear spray has been shown to be extremely effective in deterring bear attacks (T. Smith, et al. 2008). Bear spray is a non-toxic and non-lethal means of deterring aggressive bears. It temporarily affects the respiratory system and mucus membranes in bears.

  • Use bear spray. Personal self-defense pepper spray is not effective.
  • The canister must be immediately available, not in your pack.
  • Leave the safety clip on the trigger unless you are ready to spray an aggressive bear. The spray may accidentally discharge otherwise.
  • Bear spray can be adversely affected by wind, rain, cold temperatures, and age.
  • Follow the manufacturer's instructions, know how to use the spray, and be aware of its limitations, including the expiration date.
  • If you use the spray to stop a bear, leave the area immediately.
  • It is not a repellant! Do not spray it on people, tents, or backpacks.
  • Do not store your bear spray in a vehicle. It may explode.
  • Under no circumstances should bear spray create a false sense of security or serve as a substitute for standard safety precautions in bear country.

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Never approach a bear.
Never feed a bear.
Stay 100 yards (1 football field) from bears at all times.

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Last Updated: December 06, 2011 at 15:28 MST