Stand your ground and slowly back away. If you encounter a bear at close range, remain standing upright, avoid direct eye contact, back up slowly and speak in a calm, assertive voice. If the bear will not leave, move to your car or house, if available. If not, the same rules as in number 7 apply. Never attempt to feed a bear.
Bears learn very quickly.
Black bears that associate food with people may become aggressive and dangerous. This may lead to personal injury, property damage and the need to euthanize problem animals.