BEARS AND BIKES

Source: NBC News

It's time to get outside and enjoy the roads and trails on those bikes that have been stored all winter.

Travelling on fast moving bikes, especially quiet e-bikes, in bear country can easily lead to surprise encounters. In BC, the most serious injuries between people and bears have occurred during surprise encounters at close range. And at this time of year, the risk is high - our black bears are focused on finding food and mother bears are moving about with cubs and are very protective.

When you're out on your bike, keep the following safety tips in mind:

• Carry bear spray: Keep it easily accessible and know how to us it.

• Make noise: Talk, shout or sing, especially near moving water, in dense forest/brush and on windy days.

• Stay aware: Do not use headphones and watch for signs of bear activity (tracks, scat, digging).

• Ride in groups: Larger groups are less likely to encounter or surprise a bear.

• Handle encounters calmly: If you see a bear, stop, stay calm and slowly back away. If a bear approaches, stand your ground and make yourself look big. Use your bike as a shield and be prepared to use bear spray.

• Avoid riding at night: Bears are most active at dawn and dusk, so be extra vigilant if you're riding at these times.

If a bear charges or follows you:

• DO NOT RUN. Black bears can easily outrun you, even on a bike, as they can reach speeds of 50 km/hr.

• Use the bike as a shield by keeping your bike between you and the bear.

• Back away slowly and do not turn your back on the bear.

• If a black bear attacks, FIGHT BACK, focusing on the bear's face and muzzle. In the case of a grizzly attack, always PLAY DEAD and try to protect your neck and head.