If you encounter a bear, stay calm
Despite their size, strength and possession of teeth and claws, bears have no interest in killing and eating humans. If they are aware of human presence, they try their best to avoid us.
You should also avoid bears if you encounter one and it has not yet noticed you. Back away quietly while observing the bear's behaviour. If it notices you, the bear will probably try to run away. Do not look him directly in the eye (he may see this as a sign of aggression and react by counter-attacking). Turn away and pretend not to see the bear, speak in a calm voice, watch its behaviour carefully and back away slowly. Do not run away!
If a bear follows you, drop a piece of clothing or other object that might attract attention. Under no circumstances try to chase the bear away - do not shout or wave your arms over your head. This will only draw his attention to you. When a bear stands on its hind legs, it is not a threatening or aggressive gesture, as people sometimes think. It helps him get a better view (his eyesight is poor) and catch the wind to determine by scent what he is coming in contact with. In this case, it is essential to remain calm and back away slowly. Speaking deeply so the bear recognizes you as a human is also a good idea. Usually, he will immediately retreat.
If you are attacked by a bear, do not try to run away, but crouch down, curl up, protect your neck with your arms and pull your elbows to your knees. This will protect your vital organs. Do not move and do not leave until the bear is gone. Bears often only feign an attack, and if you don't defend yourself, they will lose interest in you. Although close encounters with bears are rare, usually the bear will just run away. In countries with significant bear populations, such as Slovakia, bear attacks are reported every year, but very few end in serious or fatal injury. This is even though a bear can kill a cow with one blow.
Bears have no intention of killing humans; they fear us as much as we fear them. If they are startled by human presence, they feel threatened, and if they see no way to escape, they will try to defend themselves. Therefore, it is best to prevent direct conflicts with bears by following the above rules.
Attacks can also be prevented by the proper use of bear spray, which can be purchased in our online store.
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