The National Park Service posted this plea on its Facebook page: “READ: Please don’t run from bears or push your slower friends down in attempts of saving yourself.”
As people across the country visiting parks and taking trips to the mountains this summer, they find themselves in terrifying encounters with bears, and while amusing, the rest of the post did include practical information on how to avoid bears and what to do when you encounter them. It included:
- For those interested, climbing a tree won’t help.The bears are way better at it than you are.
- If you do encounter a wild bear, the NPS says move away slowly and sideways; this allows you to keep an eye on the bear and avoid tripping.
- Moving sideways is also non-threatening to bears.
- Do NOT run, but if the bear follows, stop and hold your ground. Like dogs, they will chase fleeing animals.
- Stay calm and remember that most bears do not want to attack you; they usually just want to be left alone.
- Identify yourself by making noise so the bear knows you are a human and not a prey animal.
- Help the bear recognize you as a human. We recommend using your voice.
- The bear may come closer or stand on its hind legs to get a better look or smell.
- A standing bear is usually curious, not threatening.
