Bear Spray is NOT a Repellent

Bear spray is referred to as both a repellent and a deterrent. The latter is actually the true description of a bear spray. It is used to deter an attack, not repel a bear away from an area such as you might use mosquito repellent to keep mosquitoes away.

Bear spray is derived from the oil of hot peppers. This oil, or Oleoresin Capsicum, is a natural derivative and the safest type of chemical used in pepper sprays. It is very effective in causing inflammation of the mucous membranes in the facial area, temporarily blinding and restricting the breathing of the subject, in this case an attacking bear.

Although bears rarely attack humans, there are certain times of the year when their activity becomes heightened, such as in the fall when they are trying to store up enough fat in their system to last through the winter hibernation. They actually go into a feeding frenzy where their appetite and food intake are increased dramatically. This is also the time of year when hunters are out hunting elk and deer. An elk or deer that has been killed by a hunter is a prime food source for a hungry bear. It has already been killed for him and all he has to do is move in and feed on it. He might not be in the mood to be chased away by a human from such an easy meal. Hunter vs. hunter, both set on securing the prey. This is when bear confrontations with humans can end in disaster if hunters are not carrying bear pepper spray.

Pepper spray made especially for bears and registered with the EPA is the best deterrent when confronted by an aggressive bear. It actually works better in stopping an advancing bear than a gun does. Shooting a bear with a gun can actually make the situation worse, causing pain and anger in the bear if it is not killed with the first shot. A bluff charge from a bear can turn into an attack if shot with a gun, whereas the pepper spray creates a fog-like invisible wall an advancing bear slams into. It causes immediate temporary blindness and struggle for breath, making the bear retreat or at least stop in its tracks in confusion and pain. However, when the effects wear off within the hour, the bear will not suffer any lingering problems and will most likely rethink approaching humans again.

All hunters, hikers, campers and mountain bikers should carry EPA registered bear spray with them in areas where bears may be present.

Facing an approaching bear is the correct time to use the bear spray. Have it close at hand in a holster so you can grab it quickly, pull the safety pin, aim slightly lower than the bear's face and shoot a warning spray when the bear is at about 40 feet. If it continues to approach, spray again at 15 to 20 feet. That's about 6 to 8 human strides away from you. This is the distance that bear sprays are most effective. And this is the correct use of the spray.

Incorrect use of bear spray can actually attract bears to you. This involves attempting to use it as a repellent, spraying your tent or camping area with it in hopes of keeping bears away. Bears are inquisitive and may actually be attracted to the strange new spicy scent, drawing them to the very area you want to keep them away from. It is not a repellent but rather a deterrent and should only be used to spray in the face of an approaching bear. If the description of bear spray is used in the context of a repellent, this is only meant that it will "repel" or stop an attacking bear, not keep it away from your camping area.

Be safe in bear country. Protect yourself AND the bears with the use of pepper spray instead of guns.

Karleen Lindsey has lived her entire life with a love and respect for all animals and nature in general. She would like to help others find the peace she has found in nature by offering safety measures to ensure a relaxing safe experience in the outdoors. Check out her Guard Alaska Bear Deterrent and Mace Bear Attack Prevention and receive a 20% discount on your first purchase over $10.

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