If you practice with a new canister, you will use up some of the limited spray you may need in a bear encounter.The best option is to practice with an inert canister, which has the same spraying power but not the hot pepper ingredient.Practicing until you can retrieve your spray without thinking will help you respond effectively in a bear encounter. Practice reaching for your spray until you can retrieve it quickly.Practice and be familiar with your can and holster combination. Be sure to follow all instructions closely. If you forget to remove the cable ties, they will prevent you from removing the safety clip during a bear encounter.Īlways read the information on the canister label to learn the specific spray range and duration of your product. After making your purchase, be sure to remove the cable ties that keep the safety clip in place.It's best to purchase a holster that closes across the top so the canister doesn't slip out. Be sure to purchase a belt or chest holster to carry your bear spray.Check the canister's expiry date and replace it when necessary.The canister should weigh at least 225 grams (7.9 ounces).Be sure the canister is labelled 'for deterring bear attacks.'.Being BearSmart can prevent unwanted encounters from happening in the first place. You must always be alert, diligent and prepared.
The active ingredient in bear spray is oleoresin capsicum, which irritates the eyes, nose and lungs, causing severe but temporary eye irritation and breathing difficulty.Compared to a firearm, bear spray is more effective at interrupting a bear attack and using it reduces the chance that you, or the bear will be injured (see study below).The remaining 2% received only minor injuries that required no hospitalization (see study below). However, in a study of Alaska bear encounters, it was found that 98% of those who used bear spray were uninjured by the bear. No bear deterrent vendor can guarantee 100% success with their product.Bear spray is best used when you need to deter a bear at close range (see below).Also, noisemakers may not prevent the bear from returning to the area. Remember, the noisemaker may not immediately deter the bear, especially if the bear has had previously experience with noise deterrents.A bear that's been startled by a noisemaker may not be able to avoid groups of people as it flees the area. Make sure the surroundings are clear of people and the bear has an obvious way out. Before using noisemakers, be sure to assess the situation.Noisemakers are best used to deter a bear that is at a distance – one that sees you and continues to approach or one that is heading to your camp or settlement.When I see a bear, know when to use a noisemaker or bear spray The 2 most effective bear deterrents are bear spray and noisemakers. While following BearSmart practices can reduce the likelihood of an encounter, carrying and knowing how to properly use bear deterrents can help prevent injury if you do encounter a bear. People in bear country should be prepared to encounter a bear at any time.
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