Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
withearsforwardortotheside,movingitsheadfromsidetoside,ortryingtocatchascent
by circling downwind and approaching from behind. Individuals should not run but should
back away slowly. They can help the bear identify them as human by talking in low tones.
Movingslowlyupwindofthebearcanallowittogettheperson'sscent,althoughanescape
route for the bear must always be provided.
Ifabearhasbeensurprisedatcloserangeorshowssignsofbeingagitatedorthreatened,
suchashuffing,panting,hissing,growling,jawsnapping,stompingitsfeet,staringdirectly
at a person, or lowering its head with ears laid back, the individual should not run but
should back away slowly. Shouting or sudden movements and direct eye contact should be
avoided. Individuals should act nonthreatening while being prepared to use deterrents.
If a bear shows signs of stalking or hunting, such as following or circling a person, ap-
proaching directly, intent and unafraid, or returning after being scared away, or appears
wounded, old, or thin, individuals still should not run. Rather, they should form a group,
make loud noises, and be prepared to use deterrents and fight back.
Humans should never get between a bear and her cubs. If a bear with cubs is en-
countered, individuals should not run but should form a group and leave the area immedi-
ately. They should be prepared to fight back if the bear attacks. If a polar bear attack does
occur, any available weapon, such as rocks, blocks of ice, knives, skis, or poles, should be
used.
Many websites advise carrying guns in areas where polar bears live. The advisability
of carrying such weapons is questionable, unless individuals are quite proficient. Killing
a charging bear requires a carefully placed, high-caliber shot—often more than one. A
wounded bear is far more aggressive than one who is not.
Dealing with a Polar Bear Emergency
Search-and-rescue capabilities may be limited by terrain, weather, and availability of
aircraft. Aircraft are limited in areas inhabited by polar bears. Planes and helicopters are
rarely stationed in small communities. Air access can be delayed, sometimes for many
days,bypoorvisibility,weatherconditions,orhighwinds.Aircraftcanonlylandiftheter-
rain is safe.
Emergencycommunicationdevicessuchassatellitephonesshouldbecarried,andusers
should be conversant with their operation. Local topography and weather conditions can
limit reception. A global positioning system (GPS) navigation unit also should be carried
for relaying accurate location coordinates in case of emergency. Batteries do not last as
long in cold weather and should be kept warm and used only when necessary.
Additional information is available at polarbearsalive.org and www.nunavutparks.com/
english/visitor-information/polar-bear-safety.html .
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