Bear spray is the most effective means of deterring an attacking grizzly or black bear in a non-toxic, non-lethal manner. Although common sense might suggest that guns would provide greater personal protection, research and experience indicates that human-bear encounters that do not involve firearms are less likely to result in injury to a human or bear. According to a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service report, law enforcement agents and experienced hunters who use firearms to defend themselves suffer injury about 50% of the time, while people defending themselves with bear spray escape injury most of the time and injuries that did occur were less severe. University of Calgary's Dr. Stephen Herrero found similar results. This is why bear spray is often carried in the backcountry by biologists, professional guides and hikers and campers.

Buying Bear Spray: Purchasing Guide

• Strength: Spray should have a minimum concentration of 0.857% capsaicin

• Container size: Spray should be at least 225 grams or 7.9 ounces of net weight

• Type of sprayer: Spray pattern should be in a cloud/cone pattern

• Length of spray: Spray should last at least 8 seconds

• Range: Spray should have a range of 5 meters or about 16 feet

• Type: Not all bear sprays are the same: ensure that you are using a bear deterrent spray, not a personal defence product (where legal), like mace, designed for use on people or dogs

• Number: Try to carry at least two canisters per group

• Shelf life: Should have a shelf life of 4 years after initial purchase

• Certification: In Canada, bear spray does not have to be certified or tested, therefore, it is essential that you purchase your spray from a reputable company

Some reputable brands of bear spray include Counter Assault, UDAP, Frontiersman, and Defense Aerosols (Yukon Magnum and Bear Defence Professional).

How Bear Spray Works

The aerosol can shoots bursts of atomized capsaicin (a red pepper derivative) up to 8 meters, though the spray is most effective at short range. Bear spray causes the membranes of the eyes, nose and lungs of a bear to swell and the result is a nearly total, but temporary, loss of sight and severe restriction of breathing. To be effective, bear spray has to hit the eyes and nose of the bear. Most times, bears that are sprayed leave the area allowing you time to recede.

Bear spray is a deterrent, not a repellent; it should only be used in an encounter with an aggressive bear. Do not pre-spray objects, as this can attract bears and other wildlife.

How to Use Bear Spray

Always carry bear spray so that it is readily available to you, preferably in a holster worn on a belt or front of a backpack. Do not keep it in your backpack!

If you are in an area where you might easily surprise a bear, carry the bear spray in hand. If you encounter a nearby bear, remove the safety clip, hold the can in two hands, and extend your arms in readiness. If a bear is approaching or charging you, use the spray to deter the bear:

• Aim toward the approaching bear; adjust the angle for wind direction if possible.

• Steady your arms and depress the trigger with your thumb.

• Deploy 2 second bursts when the bear is 30 feet (10 meters) away.

• Aim slightly below the bear's face to prevent the spray from going over its head

• Try not to use the entire contents as more than one spray may be needed.

• Spray again if the bear continues to approach; aim directly for the nose, mouth and eyes.

• Once the bear has retreated or is busy cleaning itself, leave the area as quickly as possible, but do not run; alternatively, get to an area of safety, such as a car.

Watch a video here on how to use bear spray.

Consider buying inert training cans (like this one) to practice using bear spray. These cans don’t contain the active ingredient found in bear spray and are safe to use.

When to Replace Bear Spray

Bear sprays can become compromised if the seal that holds the propellant (usually nitrogen) deteriorates. This reduces the ability of the product to project the spray effectively when you really need it. For this reason, you should replace your bear spray:

• After it has been discharged for any reason.

• If it has been left in extreme temperatures (above 50° C or below freezing).

• If the can has passed its expiry date (which is printed on the can).

Warnings

• Bear spray is explosive and some bear sprays are extremely flammable.

• When transporting bear spray, always make sure the safety is securely in place and will not fall out. Bear spray should never be transported inside the passenger area of any vehicle or airplane unless in a fully sealed, enclosed in a container like this one.

• Bear spray should not be sprayed on objects such as tents or humans. This type of use has no deterrent effect on bears. In fact, it has been reported that some bears may be attracted to bear spray. Clean up any spray residue with white vinegar so that it doesn't attract bears—do not use water; it will only spread the oil around.

• Wind speed and direction can affect the effectiveness of bear spray. If the wind is blowing in the users face the spray will contaminate the user and not the bear. In addition, if there is a cross-wind the bear may not receive a full application of the spray. Prior to deployment of the spray, if possible, move to where the wind direction is more favourable.

Accidental Contamination

The inflammatory properties of the bear spray will affect humans in a similar way as it does bears. A person contaminated with bear spray will experience the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose and lungs to swell and be irritated. The eyes will involuntarily close and tear, the nose will run profusely coughing will result. Use the following guidelines to de-contaminate upon an accidental contamination:

• Wash all affected areas with cool clean water.

• Remove contact lenses.

• Wash all contaminated clothing as soon as possible.

• Be aware of hypothermia in cool weather conditions.

• Take short shallow breaths to avoid breathing in the spray.

It may take up to 15-20 minutes before relief from the symptoms are felt. If the symptoms persist seek medical attention.

A Final Reminder…

Nothing can replace good sense and proper safety measures. People whose activities may possibly put them in a situation where they may encounter a bear or other wild animal should educate themselves on how to avoid negative bear encounters and what to do in case of an attack. Bear spray is ideal for personal defence use when hunting, camping, fishing, hiking and biking or whenever enjoying the great outdoors in bear habitat. Being mentally prepared will help you should you require the use of your bear spray.