Should You Carry Bear Pepper Spray?

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The Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee has led the recovery of the grizzly bear in the lower 48 states since 1983. Committee experts say that bear spray is critical to grizzly bear recovery because it effectively deters grizzly bears and helps humans to avoid injury.

Bear pepper spray is not a substitute for taking the proper precautions to avoid a bear in the first place. The IGBC recommends its use only as a deterrent in a confrontation with an aggressive or attacking bear.

Bear experts say that bear spray is only effective when used as an airborne deterrent sprayed as a cloud at an aggressive animal. It should not be applied to people, tents, packs, other equipment or surrounding area as a repellent.

Here is how to handle bear pepper spray:

* Each person should carry a can of bear pepper spray when working or recreating in bear habitat.

* Spray should be quickly accessible, such as in a hip or chest holster. In your tent, keep bear pepper spray readily available next to your flashlight. You should also keep a can available in your cooking area.

* Spray should be tested once a year. Do not test spray in or near camping area. Be sure to check the expiration date on your can of bear spray.

Here is how to use bear pepper spray:

* Aim slightly down and toward the approaching bear. If necessary, adjust for any cross wind.

* Spray a brief shot when the bear is about 50 feet away.

* Spray again if the bear continues to approach.

* Once the animal has retreated or is busy cleaning itself, leave the area as quickly as possible, but do not run. Or, go to an immediate area of safety, such as a car, tree, or building. Do not chase or pursue the animal.

Selecting a bear pepper spray:

* Purchase products that are clearly labeled "for deterring attacks by bears."

* Purchase products that are registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The EPA Bear Deterrent web site lists registered bear pepper spray manufacturers.

No deterrent is 100 percent effective, but compared to all others, including firearms, bear spray is the most successful in fending off bear attacks and preventing injury to the person and animal involved.

According to the IGBC, the proper use of bear spray can reduce the number of grizzly bears killed in self-defense, reduce human injuries caused by bears, and help promote the recovery and survival of the grizzly bear.

For more information on being bear aware, go to FWP’s home page at fwp.mt.gov   and click on Be Bear Aware.