[h=2]Polar Bears[/h]

• These bears are desperate for a meal. They are not used to humans, but will stalk one hoping for an easy kill. If they charge, they are not bluffing.

• Make lots of noise. Because they are not accustomed to humans, this will often scare them off.

• Stay with your group. Polar bears are much more likely to attack a person on their own versus a group of people.

• If the bear attacks, go for the nose and eyes. Again, these are sensitive areas that could get the bear to run.

[h=2]Cougars[/h]

• Cougars are one of the few animals that will follow a human looking for an opportunity to strike. If it lets you see it, you are in trouble.

• Never run. Instead stand tall and quietly face the animal.

• Stay in your group. Cougars typically go after a lone hiker versus a group of people.

• Do not do anything to make yourself look larger. The cat will see this as a threat and attack.

• Never turn your back or break eye contact. The cougar will see this as an opportunity to strike.

• If the animal start to approach, this is the time to try and scare it off. Make noise, throw things, and do whatever you can to get it to back off.

• When the animals attacks, you have to stay on your feet. If it gets you on your back, the cougar will likely get your neck and the fight is over.

• If you have to fight, go for the eyes. This is likely your only chance of survival.

• Cougars are sometimes hesitant to head into water. If you have a body of water close by, start swimming. It might give you the distance you need to survive.

[h=2]Wolves/Coyotes[/h]

• These are cunning pack animals and with rising numbers, and attacks are more common. They will stalk their prey and find the right moment to disable its legs. Then the pack will swarm once you are on the ground.

• Never try to run. These animals can run at least twice as fast as the fastest human. They will see you as prey.

• If they let you see them, you are in trouble. They rely on staying hidden until ready to attack.

• If you are alone and surrounded, take the offensive and start attacking. At that point it is almost a guarantee that they will try to kill you.

• Do not allow yourself to slip or trip. The opportune time for them to attack is when you are on the ground.

• Make lots of noise to scare them off. Often coyotes in particular will scatter if you make loud noises.

• If you are in a group and a pack emerges, prepare for battle. Stand back to back and find anything sharp for a weapon to go for the eyes and noses.

• Climb a tree if possible. This will eliminate the immediate risk, but do not be surprised if they wait it out at the base of the tree.

[h=2]Lions[/h] Of course your best option with lions is avoidance or deterrence. Building a boma with thorny brush is helpful, and a fire is always a good idea. If you do have to face a lion, stand your ground, make loud noises, throw rocks, and grab any weapon you can. Most charges are a bluff, so make sure you do not run. Back away slowly, but freeze if the lion starts to follow.
[h=2]Tigers[/h] As with any cats, making yourself look larger and making noise is a good idea. Try to avoid old or injured tigers as they account for most human attacks. If you are walking in an area with tigers, consider wearing a mask on the back of your head. This will often make a stalking tiger think you are looking at them before you even see them. Unlike other cats, do not make eye contact and consider climbing a tree. Tigers are not nearly as skilled at climbing as other cats.