human CHRONICLES 46 Bears have been known to treat cars like tin cans when they smell food inside. They might not mind your leftovers, but you certainly will when your car looks like it’s been through a demolition derby. that could provoke a bear into a canine chase sequence. And remember, always keep your dog on a leash. It’s not just a rule; it’s a life-saving strategy. An Insurance Nightmare Bears have been known to treat cars like tin cans when they smell food inside. They might not mind your leftovers, but you certainly will when your car looks like it’s been through a demolition derby. Safe Trails and Unsafe Trails There’s a common misconception that some trails are safer for bear viewing. Spoiler alert: bears don’t follow human-made rules. They can show up anywhere. The best way to view a bear is from a safe distance, preferably with a good zoom lens on your camera and a firm grip on reality. What to Do When Bears Get Too Friendly Sometimes, bears wander too close to human habitats. Parks Canada employs a variety of methods, such as rubber bullets and warning shots, to drive them away. Your best course of action if a bear approaches your campsite is to remain composed, make noise to alert it to your presence, and then carefully retreat. Never look a bear in the eye since it could be interpreted as a challenge. And please do not attempt to feed it. This is real life, not a scene from a Disney film. The Do’s and Don’ts of Bear Encounters Do make noise: Every 10 meters or so, shout, sing, or recite Shakespearean sonnets. Anything to let the bear know you’re in the area. Just don’t whistle or cough; animals make those sounds too, and you don’t want to confuse the bear. Don’t run: Running makes you look like prey. Slow, deliberate movements are the way to go. Think sloth, not cheetah. Do stay in groups: A huge gathering of people deters bears from approaching. Furthermore, safety comes in numbers, especially if you’re the fastest of the lot. You have a greater probability of not being the sacrificed person (just kidding, or am I?). Don’t leave food out: If you’re camping, hang your food between two trees, at least 12 feet off the ground. Bears have an uncanny ability to sniff out snacks, and they’re not picky eaters.
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