Five Ways to Ward Off a Wild Animal Attack

JUNE 22, 2007 — -- Mountain lions, elk and bears are fun to look at in the zoo, but out in the wild, these beautiful animals can turn into a camper's worst nightmare.

A week ago, in Utah's American Fork Canyon, 11-year-old Sam Ives was mauled to death by a black bear that dragged him from his tent. In another incident the same week, Georgia father Chris Everhart killed a 300-pound bear with a block of firewood that tried to attack his sons on a camping trip.

So what do you do if you come face to face with a dangerous wild animal? Better yet, what can you do to keep them away from you and your loved ones in the first place?

Animal attacks aren't a common occurrence, but there are some simple things you can do to have a safe and enjoyable camping experience, said Al Nash, a Yellowstone National Park spokesperson.

1. Pepper spray, for bears. Pepper spray isn't just for human attackers. In fact, it can be used to open a window of escape from an attacking animal.

"We encourage people to carry pepper spray, not in your pack though -- you need it on your hip," said Nash. "It's very large, they sell pepper spray in large canisters designed specifically for bears…it's a way to get the bear to back away if you find yourself up close and personal."

2. Stop what you're doing, and back away. Backing away from an animal is the best way to escape. Keeping the animal in your sight is key, said Nash.

"Try not to run, especially from bears, because prey run," said Nash. "If you are at a point where the bear comes at you, drop to the ground, curl up -- pull your knees to your chest, interlock your fingers and put your hands behind your neck. This is a good way to protect your most vital areas and organs."

3. Containers are key. It's all about keeping food, garbage and toiletries inaccessible. Yellowstone National Park strongly enforces rules that keep wild animals away from campsites. Officials say the staff patrols the campgrounds and confiscates food and other items left unattended.

"If there is no food out, there is no temptation," said Nash. "With no food, bears don't learn to equate people with food, so they don't come into a campsite looking for something to eat."