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Protect Bears and Humans

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Sponsor: The Animal Rescue Site

Take action now by signing the Bear Safety Pledge to protect bears, ecosystems, and yourself.

Take action now by signing the Bear Safety Pledge to protect bears, ecosystems, and yourself.

Bears are awe-inspiring creatures. Encountering them in the wild can be an unforgettable experience, one that connects us to the majesty of nature. However, it's crucial to remember that while these encounters can be thrilling, they must also be safe — for both humans and bears.

The Urgent Need for Bear Safety

Bear safety isn't just about protecting yourself; it's about preserving the incredible biodiversity and natural balance of our ecosystems. Bears play a pivotal role in maintaining the health and vitality of the wild places we cherish1.

However, when humans and bears come into conflict, it often leads to tragic consequences for both parties2. Bear-human conflicts can result in injury or death for bears, and they pose significant risks to human safety as well. These conflicts are often rooted in avoidable behaviors such as improper food storage, feeding wildlife, and inadequate precautions during outdoor activities3.

Take the Bear Safety Pledge

We invite you to take a stand for bear safety. It's a commitment that not only ensures your safety but contributes to the preservation of these incredible creatures and the ecosystems they inhabit. By signing the Bear Safety Pledge, you're joining a community dedicated to responsible practices and wildlife conservation.

Bear safety isn't complicated, but it does require awareness, education, and a commitment to responsible practices.

Sign the Bear Safety Pledge today and be part of a brighter tomorrow for bears and our natural world. Together, we can create a world where the majesty of bears thrives, unburdened by unnecessary conflict, and where nature's delicate balance is preserved for generations to come.

More on this issue:

  1. Christopher Servheen, Stephen Herrero, Bernard Peyton, IUCN, "Bears."
  2. Colorado Parks & Wildlife (31 December 2015), "Human-Bear Conflicts."
  3. Great Bear Pantheon (October 2020), "Bear Avoidance, Interaction, Mitigation, and Monitoring Plan North Slope, Alaska."
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The Pledge:

I pledge to prioritize safety in bear habitat to protect both bears and myself.

Bear safety is paramount to ensure the well-being of both humans and bears in their natural habitat. Bears play a vital role in our ecosystems, and their preservation is essential. By practicing bear safety, we reduce the risk of bear-human conflicts, which often lead to harm to both parties. Our pledge is a commitment to coexist peacefully with these magnificent creatures and protect the delicate balance of nature.

I pledge to take the following actions to stay safe in bear country:

  1. Secure Food: I will store food and garbage in bear-resistant containers or buildings to prevent attracting bears.
  2. Remove Bird Feeders: I will take down bird feeders when bears are active to avoid luring them into my yard.
  3. Pet Food: I will never leave pet food outside; if I feed pets outdoors, I will use single portions and remove bowls afterward.
  4. Grills and Smokers: I will clean and store grills and smokers to remove enticing food odors.
  5. Educate Myself: Before venturing into bear-populated areas, I will proactively educate myself on BearWise practices.
  6. Caution During Encounters: I will exercise caution during bear encounters, refraining from approaching or feeding them.
  7. Group Activities: While hiking or walking, I will travel in groups, make noise, and carry bear spray.
  8. Announce Presence: To avoid surprising bears, I will make my presence known by talking or clapping.
  9. Respect Bear Families: I will keep a safe distance from bear cubs, as mother bears are protective.
  10. Clean Campsites: When camping, I will maintain a clean campsite, washing dishes immediately, and disposing of trash in bear-proof containers.

By taking these actions, I commit to a safer, happier future for all. Together, we can coexist harmoniously with bears and contribute to the preservation of these incredible creatures and the ecosystems they inhabit.

Pledged by,

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