While camping or hiking in bear territory, it's important to: Make noise while hiking to alert bears of your presence, and avoid startling them. Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Keep a clean campsite and store all food, toiletries, and scented items in bear-proof containers. Never approach or feed bears, and maintain a safe distance of at least 100 meters. Learn how to identify bear species and how to respond in the event of a bear encounter (black bears and grizzlies require different response strategies).