Survival Tips: How to Survive a Bear Attack

If you are either out hiking, hunting, or camping you need to be aware if it is bear territory. Being aware if there are bears around will be your first clue on how to act and what to do if you come into contact with one.

If you happen to spot a bear out in the wilderness and the bear sees you, there are a few things you need to do so the bear will not charge you. Bears can attack for a number of reasons, e.g., protect territory, food, cubs, and being surprised. Talk softly, calm and slowly. You want the bear to identify you not as a threat. Back away with your arms and hands raised above your head, waving them slowly. This will make the bear think you are a larger animal and hopefully make it go on its merry way.

Do not make eye contact with the bear. It will see this as a threat. Do not loose sight of the bear as you are backing away though. You want to know what it is doing at all times.

If the bear decides it is being threatened and charges you, DO NOT RUN. Stand your ground when it is charging. Bears will commonly "Bluff" charge before they will attack. At this time continue to SLOWLY walk backwards away from the bear. If the bear continues to charge and is going to attack, lay down in a fetal position. If the bear senses no retaliation, it may see you as not a threat and leave you alone. If you are wearing a backpack, keep it on. This will help protect your back during the attack. Laying on the ground in a fetal position can reduce the level of injury sustained during the attack. If the bear decides to leave, don't get up right away. Stay on the ground and wait more than ten minutes. The bear can be off watching you waiting to see if you run.

If the bear does not stop attacking you, you need to fight back. Try to get up and be as loud and aggressive as you can. Punch for the eyes and snout of the bear. This can daze the animal and give you enough time to escape.