Quote:
Originally Posted by einreb
I'm not actually sure under what circumstances you would use pepper spray. As i recall: if you see a bear... you back away. If it sees you, you wave your arms, talk and back away. Here's the funny one; if it charges you, stand there and 'take it'. It will most likely be a bluff charge and they will swerve away. Worst case is you get between mamma and cub, also bad is a sick or mangy bear.
Regardless, the likelyhood of any of this happening is remote, just keep your wits about you and don't fly around blind corners.
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Pretty solid advise there, only to add if all else fails and you are charged (and it's not a mock-charge), roll up in the tightest head-covering, fetal-position ball you can, and pray. You will not be outrunning any bear.
The bear pepper spray is OK I guess, but is generally a last resort. If you are close enough to a bear to need it, you are already having a bad day! Just like any other pepper spray, there's always a chance of getting overspray blown back at you. Not good, especially if you miss the bear, and now can't see!
Plus, if you touch something it has coated, then touch your face, eyes, nose, or mouth later on, you will not be having any fun.
I don't know your employer or park rules, but a "bear scare" gun might be worth looking into. Basically, they are pistols that shoot percussive firecrackers out a ways before they explode. Very effective for making Yogi high-tail it out of your sector! Or, you might consider packing
real heat anyway. I have run into a weirdo or two when camping/hiking, so maybe better safe than sorry.
Also, do NOT underestimate the mosquitoes. Stock up on the DEET, and prepare to get eaten!
Mosquitoes in AK are the size of F-18's.
