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Wildlife Encounter Tips

For encounters with large wildlife species such as bears or mountain lions, the following information may be helpful:

Do not run from the animal. Running may cause the animal to identify you as prey and attack.
Do not turn your back to the animal. Remain calm and slowly back away from the situation if it seems safe to do so, but keep an eye on the animal as you leave.
Return to a safe place if possible. If there is a building or vehicle nearby, get in it.
Call for reinforcements. If you have a radio or cell phone or if there are people within the sound of your voice, call for assistance. Groups of people will scare the animal away.
Remain alert and cautious. Once the animal has left, it is probably safe for you to resume your work. Do not work alone.
If you feel an attack is imminent:
Face the animal.
Make yourself look as large as possible. Raise your arms above your head. If you have a jacket, hold it in your arms above your head. Pick up branches and wave them around.
Be loud. Yell, scream, throw rocks, whatever you can think of. You are trying to intimidate the animal (and attract help, if anyone is around).
Be prepared to fight if attacked. If you are attacked, fighting the animal is your best chance of convincing it to break off the attack.