You’re hiking along the beach on Vancouver Island when suddenly you notice a black bear coming towards you. You remember that you brought a bear spray, but you are panicking and, you forgot how to use it. This page will teach you what is a bear spray and step-by-step instructions on how to use one.

So, what is a bear spray?

Bear sprays are bear deterrents used during emergencies to avoid getting harmed by a bear in close encounters. It contains capsaicin, which is a chemical that irritates the eyes and nose and causes difficulty breathing. Bear sprays are regulated and are illegal when used on people. Every second counts when spraying a bear because it lasts up to 20 seconds.

If you think that Bear sprays are hard to use. It’s not! Here is how to properly use one:

1. Expiration date – Check the expiry date before bringing it with you. The last thing you want is a bear spray that doesn’t spray because it’s a few years old and there’s not enough pressure inside.
2. Repeat use – Ask yourself if this spray has been used before. If yes, consider purchasing another one.
3. Wind direction – ask yourself, “Is the wind blowing towards me?” Ensure the wind is blowing away from you and towards the bear. Do not spray if the wind is blowing towards you. Recovering from a bear spray takes time and is very painful.
4. Is the distance between you and the bear up to 5.5m? Read the canister – consider making loud noises by banging pots or metal against it or yelling at the bear if the bear is at a distance. If the bear is charging towards you and is less than 5.5m, get the bear spray and prepare yourself. Here is how to prepare yourself to spray:
   1. Ensure the bear spray is easily accessible. I usually hang it in front of my chest, and during day hikes, I put it inside the side pocket or wear it around my waist.
   2. Remove the bear spray from the holster.
   3. Release the safety clip.
   4. Hold with both hands.
   5. Spray in 2-3 second bursts.
   6. Repeat burst sprays if the bear keeps approaching you.
   7. Slowly walk back, and if it’s safe, return the safety clip and stow the bear spray away.
5. First aid – if the spray hits your eyes, nose, or mouth, rinse your eyes continuously with water until you feel relieved. If you experience difficulty breathing, try controlling your breathing by slowing it down. If your breathing worsens, call 911, and consider receiving mouth-to-mouth to help with breathing.

Remember to stay calm and continue to make loud noises and look big to scare the bear away.

Check out Parks Canada’s page on Bear Spray here: https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/mtn/ours-bears/securite-safety/gaz-spray