You’re taking your family out on an exciting camping adventure into the great American wilderness. Everything is packed and ready to go. But did you remember it’s also bear country? In fact, there might be a bear or two wandering the same trails and campsite as you.
A quick fact: when bears feel threatened, their jog clocks in between 30 and 35 mph, whereas humans at their fastest run around 16mph. Just check out this incredible video, and you’ll see why running isn’t the best choice.
The moral of the story is? Never try to outrun a bear, even if you’re an aspiring olympian hopeful!
So, what should you do instead? The National Park Service (NPS) recommends learning how to avoid them in the first place. This includes strategies to keep food and waste locked up tight and away from curious animals.
If you do find yourself face to face with a bear, be aware your fight or flight instincts will kick in. Resist them; don’t run. Remain still, stand your ground, speak calmly and wave your arms instead. Then, start slowly moving away from the bear sideways. This is less confrontational, and the bear is less likely to interpret it as a threat.
