How likely is a black bear attack?
There’s less than 1 black bear attack a year in the United States, and according to the NPS, the chances of being injured by a bear are 1 out of 2.1 million. Since 1900, there have been 67 fatalities in North America linked to black bears.
What happens if a black bear attacks you?
Brown/Grizzly Bears: If you are attacked by a brown/grizzly bear, leave your pack on and PLAY DEAD. Black Bears: If you are attacked by a black bear, DO NOT PLAY DEAD. Try to escape to a secure place such as a car or building. If escape is not possible, try to fight back using any object available.
Do I need bear spray in Utah?
YES. If the bear continues to approach, use your bear spray. You should have bear spray with you at all times while hiking and camping and adventuring. Bear spray is known to be over 90% effective at preventing a bear attack.
Who is most likely to be attacked by a black bear?
The 750,000 black bears of North America kill less than one person per year on the average, while men ages 18-24 are 167 times more likely to kill someone than a black bear. Most attacks by black bears are defensive reactions to a person who is too close, which is an easy situation to avoid.
What to do if a black bear approaches you?
Never run away from or approach him. Make yourself look as big as possible by spreading your arms or, better yet, a coat. Make as much noise as possible by yelling, banging pots and pans or using other noisemaking devices. If the bear approaches and you have bear spray, spray the bear as he approaches.
What smells do bears hate?
Bears also dislike the strong scent of pine-based cleaners, but avoid using anything with a fresh, lemony or fruity smell. And never mix bleach and ammonia; the combination produces fumes that can be deadly to both people and bears.
Are there grizzly bears in Utah?
The last known grizzly bear in Utah was killed in 1923. It may be possible for grizzly bears to return to Utah if they continue to increase and expand in Wyoming or Idaho. Any entry into Utah would most likely come through the Bear River range or down the Green River corridor in Northern Utah.
Can you carry bear spray in Utah?
It is legal to buy, carry, use, and ship pepper spray to Utah.
Does fire scare away bears?
Campfires, as warm, cozy, and safe as they make us feel, will not deter bears. But loud, off-key singing around a campfire will. The fact is, bears don’t want an encounter with us any more than we want one with them. And noise is the best deterrent.
What to do if a black bear attacks you?
Be ready to protect and defend yourself! If a black bear charges and attacks you, FIGHT BACK WITH EVERYTHING YOU HAVE! Do not play dead. Direct punches and kicks at the bear’s face, and use any weapon like rocks, branches, or bear spray to defend yourself.
What to do if you encounter a bear in Utah?
Black bears usually avoid contact with people, but encounters in Utah’s woods and mountains are not uncommon. Stand your ground. Never back up, lie down or play dead. Stay calm and give the bear a chance to leave. Prepare to use your bear spray or another deterrent.
Are there Black Bears in the Utah mountains?
Utah’s mountains and forests are home to thousands of black bears. Black bears often live in the same places we camp, hike and build our houses. This poses a safety concern for both humans and bears. If a bear obtains food from a home or campsite — even once — it may become aggressive in future attempts.
Are there any fatal bear attacks in North America?
Fatal bear attacks in North America have occurred in a variety of settings. There have been several in the bears’ wilderness habitats involving hikers, hunters, and campers.