|
IGBC Bear Spray Recommendations
 The IGBC does not endorse, promote or guarantee any commercial product.
The following are only recommendations. The IGBC does recommend the use of bear spray as an effective tool when used in conjunction with proper bear avoidance safety techniques. Bear spray is not a substitute for following proper bear avoidance safety techniques. (Never approach, attempt to follow, interact with, or feed a bear)
No deterrent is 100% effective, but bear spray has demonstrated success in fending off charging and attacking bears and preventing, or reducing injury to the person and animal involved. The proper use of bear spray may reduce human injuries caused by bears, the number of grizzly bears killed in self-defense, and help promote the recovery and survival of the grizzly bear.
Selecting and buying a bear spray:
- To purchase the correct product, ask the sales person specifically for Bear Spray.
- All bear sprays MUST be registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Purchase products that clearly state "for deterring attacks by bears." The EPA registration number is displayed on the front label.
- The active ingredient is clearly shown on the label and is 1% to 2% Capsaicin and related Capsaicinoids. The active ingredient is what affects the bears eyes, nose, mouth, throat and lungs.
- Personal defense, law enforcement or military sprays, (often referred to as “pepper spray”) may not be formulated, contain the correct ingredients or have the proper delivery system, to divert a charging or attacking bear.
- Suggested spray duration of 6 seconds to compensate for multiple bears, wind, bears that may zigzag, circle, or charge repeatedly, and for the hike out.
- Suggested spray distance of 25+ feet to reach the bear at a distance sufficient for the bear to react to effects of the active ingredients in bear spray in time to divert its charge and retreat.
- Each person working or recreating in bear habitat should carry a can of bear spray in a quickly accessible fashion. Bear spray should also be readily available in the sleeping, cooking and toilet areas of a camp.
- Be sure the expiration date on each can of bear spray is current.
For a List of Bear Spray Manufacturers visit the EPA’s website at: http://www.epa.gov/region8/toxics/pests/beardeter.html
For more information visit: www.igbconline.org/ for the Bear Spray Overview Report-2008 and www.BeBearAware.org.
Printable Copy
|
