I laughed so hard reading this because apparently it’s not common sense lol!
The National Park Service reminds people not to suppress your “slow friend” when running from bears and I have so many questions…
For starters, how many times has it happened that the National Park Service had to make that statement in the first place? Probably way too many lol!
Yes, I’m aware it’s probably a joke, but still…
The National Park Service took to Twitter to share the kind reminder, saying:
When encountering a bear, never knock down a slower friend…even if you feel like the friendship has run its course.??
They then followed up with another tweet which said:
If not friend, why friend shaped? What about your other friend? Seeing a bear in the wild is a special treat for any national park visitor. While it’s an exciting moment, it’s important to remember that bears in national parks are wild and can be dangerous.
It’s funny, but seriously, this Shared NPS tips about what you SHOULD do if you ever come near a bear in the wild.
First, make sure you research the area you’re visiting for up-to-date information about bears in the area.
Then here are a few helpful tips:
- Identify yourself by speaking calmly so the bear knows you are human and not prey. Stay quiet; stand firm, but wave your arms slowly. Help the bear recognize you as a human. It may come closer or stand on its hind legs to get a better look or smell. A standing bear is usually curious, not threatening.
- stay calm and remember that most bears don’t want to attack you; They usually just want to be left alone. Bears can bluff their way out of an encounter by charging and then turning away at the last second. Bears can also respond defensively by courting, yawning, drooling, growling, jaw snapping, and flattening their ears. Keep talking softly to the bear; this will help you remain calmer and will not be threatening to the bear. A scream or sudden movement can trigger an attack. Never imitate bear noises or make a high-pitched squeak.
- Pick up toddlers immediately. Don’t make loud noises or yells – the bear might think it’s the sound of prey. Slowly wave your arms above your head and tell the bear to back off. DO NOT run or make sudden movements. Don’t make loud noises or yells – the bear might think it’s the sound of prey.
- Hike and travel in groups. Groups of people are usually louder and stink more than a single person. As such, bears are often alert to greater distances from groups of people, and because of their cumulative size, groups are also intimidating to bears.
- Make yourself as big as possible (e.g. go to a higher level).
You can read the rest National Park Service bear tips here.
And remember, never knock your “slow friend” down! Stay safe out there!