Carry a bandanna, shirt, or hat to drop to distract an approaching bear or lion. Leave it on for added protection. Avoid taking pets on hiking trails -it is not advised and often not allowed. If dogs are permitted, keep them on a leash to minimize conflicts with wildlife. Do not run from a bear or lion - running may trigger an attack.
Bears can run faster than racehorses, both uphill and downhill.
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. Bear and mountain lion attacks are extremely rare. If a mountain lion attacks, fight back aggressively using anything available, including your fists.