This BARS are on the prowl in Western North Carolina, so if you see a bear do these steps according to the Asheville Citizen Times:
? Do not approach.
? You?re too close if the bear stops eating, heads in a different direction, or watches you.
? Being too close might make the bear aggressive. It could run toward you or swat the ground.
? Don?t run, but slowly back away.
? If a bear persistently follows without vocalizing or paw swatting, try changing your direction.
? If the bear continues to follow, stand your ground.
? If the bear gets closer, talk loudly or shout at it. Act aggressively and try to intimidate the bear.
?
Act together as a group if you have companions. Throw nonfood objects
such as rocks at the bear. Use a deterrent such as a stout stick.
? Don?t run and don?t turn away from the bear.
I don’t know about you, but if a 500 pound black bear charges me I’m not going to stand there and embrace it, are you?
