State specific solution - Rhode Island - How to protect myself from bear attack
Report any contact with a black bear to the DEM Divsion of Law Enforcement (401) 222-3070.
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How to protect myself from bear attack in Rhode Island | Black bear
Rhode Island > Animal is behaving aggressively > Black bear
How to protect myself from bear attack
If you are approached by an aggressive bear avoid direct eye contact, speak in a soft, calm voice and slowly back away from the bear. These actions often will help appease the bear. The bear may slap the ground, huff, blow, and chomp its teeth or make a bluff charge to let you know it feels threatened and wants space. Do not run or turn your back to the bear. Bears can outrun, out-swim and out-climb you.
Make yourself appear bigger by raising your arms above your head, and continue to speak in a soft, calm voice and back away from the bear.
If you are actually charged and attacked, fight back rather than "play dead." Capsaicin, or concentrated red pepper spray, has been a useful repellent when sprayed directly into the face of the bear, but it is only effective at close range and for threatening encounters. Spray range is typically less than 30 feet. Do not use capsaicin spray on objects or plants as a bear repellent, it may actually attract bears.
Kick, punch, and hit the bear with your fists, feet, and whatever weapon might be available. Concentrate your attack on the bear’s face, eyes, and nose.
Get prompt medical treatment. Notify your state wildlife agency to report the attack and have the bear captured and tested for diseases.
Laws and regulations to be aware of
While we attempt to provide guidance about state and federal regulations pertaining to specific species and control techniques, we do not provide information about local jurisdictions (city, town, county, etc.) where regulations may be more restrictive, especially as it applies to discharge of firearms, transport of animals or use of trapping equipment. Contact your local city or county government to inquire further. No guarantee is made that information (or lack of information) associated with a species or control technique is completely accurate or current. You should become familiar with federal, state and local laws before beginning any wildlife control activities. |
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