[at-l] Found this on Bears and Pepper Spray

["Coosa" <coosa@fox21.net>]

Something I found on the Internet, Coosa


Bears and Pepper Spray


 An increasing number of backcountry hikers carry pepper spray as a possible
deterrent against aggressive bears.

 What is Pepper Spray?
                                   This aerosol red pepper derivative
affects an animal's upper respiratory system
                                   and mucous membranes, triggering
temporary incapacitating discomfort. It is
                                   intended to be a non-toxic and non-lethal
means of deterring bears. Throughout
                                   North America, pepper spray has
apparently repelled aggressive or attacking
                                   bears. However, there are accounts where
pepper spray has not worked as well
                                   as expected.

 Many factors influence the effectiveness  of pepper spray.
                                   Spray distance, wind, wet or rainy
weather, extremes of heat or cold, and
                                   product shelf life all may affect its
usefulness. The decision to carry pepper spray
                                   as a bear deterrent comes down to a
personal choice. If you decide to carry
                                   spray, it is your responsibility to use
it wisely and only in situations where
                                   aggressive bear behavior justifies its
use.

 What should I buy?
                                   If you decide to purchase a can of pepper
spray for bear repellent, there are a
                                   couple of considerations:

                                      A  Many states and countries do not
sell or allow the ownership of pepper
                                        spray. Check with your local
authorities.
                                      B  You can purchase pepper spray from
most sporting goods stores in
                                        Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho. The
spray cans are generally good for
                                        2-3 seasons. After that, they should
be replaced.
                                      C  If using the spray for bear
repellent, get the biggest can possible, generally
                                        the 9 - 15 oz. size. The cost of
these range from $30 - $50. The can
                                        should have an EPA Registration
number.
                                      D  Most large cans come with a
holster, make sure yours has one.
                                      E  Have your spray can on your belt
and available. Don't put it in your pack
                                        when you hike. It must be available
in a split-second.
                                      F  Make sure you know how to use your
spray - read the manufacturer's
                                        instructions and give it a test
spray.


 Under no circumstances should pepper spray create a false sense of security
or serve as a substitute for standard  safety precautions in bear country.



url: bearpepp.htm
Contact: Kim Barber, Regional Bear Biologist
date created: July 20, 1998



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