To stay safe in bear country, always be aware of your surroundings. Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising a bear, and travel in groups if possible. Keep food stored in bear-proof containers and never leave food scraps behind. If you encounter a bear, remain calm and do not run. Speak softly to the bear and back away slowly. If the bear approaches, stand your ground and make yourself look larger. In case of an attack, use bear spray if available, and play dead if it’s a grizzly bear or fight back if it’s a black bear.