It is extremely rare for bears to track a human. It may think you’re a deer or something like that, or it smells food you’re carrying. Once it realizes you aren’t prey, it won’t attack. If you stumbled on the bear by accident, it may be as surprised as you are. Don’t jump or dart away, though. That will only excite the bear further.

Most bears can run over 30 miles per hour (48 km/h). For context, most people can run 6–8 miles per hour (9. 7–12. 9 km/h). In other words, you’ll never outrun a bear. [3] X Research source Every bear can (and will) follow you up a tree if you climb one. As bulky and heavy as bears are, they’re actually phenomenal climbers. [4] X Research source You may have heard that bears can’t run downhill. This is a popular myth, but there’s no truth to it. [5] X Research source

If you happen to be holding something noisy, like a pot, bang it repeatedly while you talk, sing, or shout.

If you’re wearing a jacket, pull the bottom corners up over your head and wave it back and forth. At this point, the vast majority of bears should be scared off and begin moving away.

Continue talking and making noise while you pick any children up. If you have a super young child who doesn’t realize what’s going on, sing a children’s song. Maybe they’ll help you scare the bear by singing along.

A black bear may stomp their feet or growl loudly instead of charging. If you see a bear stand up, it’s not a sign that they’re going to attack. Bears just do this when they’re trying to sniff the air to orient themselves.

Once the bear flees, leave the area immediately by travelling in the opposite direction—preferably the way you came. You should always bring bear spray with you when you go hiking or camping. Purchase bear spray at any outdoor store, national park gift shop, or online. When you’re outdoors, always keep the bear spray close to you in an easily accessible area. Many hikers keep the spray clipped on to their backpack straps.

Moving at an angle also won’t accidentally give the bear the impression that you’re running away, which will trigger a chase.

If you do have bear spray, continue to spray the bear as it gets close and aim for the eyes. That’s always going to be a better option than playing dead. Do not get up right away—wait 2-3 minutes until you no longer hear the bear. The bear is likely to hang out for a minute to confirm that you’re not going to get up and attack. Remember the phrase, “If it’s brown, lie down. ”

If you do have bear spray, use that instead of trying to physically fight the bear. Black bears are like bullies. They’ll often give up if you show them you’re willing to fight back. You can remember to fight black bears with the motto, “If it’s black, fight back. ”