Be aware of your surroundings. Keep children close to you and within your sight at all times. Carry a bandanna, shirt, or hat to drop to distract an approaching bear. Leave it on for added protection. If dogs are permitted, keep them on a leash to minimize conflicts with wildlife.
Bears can run faster than racehorses, both uphill and donwhill.
Talk to the animal in a calm, low voice while slowly backing away. Immediately pick up small children and stay in a group. Contact a wildlife management agency in the area you are visiting to learn about local regulations and guidelines or for additional information about wildlife encounters. If a black or grizzly bear attacks at night while you're in a tent, fight back aggressively with sticks or stones. Do not move or make noise until you are sure the bear has left the area.