Working in remote work sites poses unique challenges, especially when it comes to sharing the environment with wildlife, including bears. Bear awareness is crucial for individuals operating in such areas to ensure both personal safety and the well-being of the local wildlife. In this article, we will explore bear awareness while working in remote sites, focusing on preparation for solo work, distinguishing between black and brown bears, and examining recent cases of bear attacks in Canada.
We may often lose sight of the fact that being in nature puts us in the habitats of many different types of wildlife. Both for recreation and for work. Although attacks are not all that common, I will include some ways to protect yourself and prepare for a bear encounter as well as outline some past incidents from recent years. Including one from just this past week in Alberta.
Only 14 per cent of grizzly bear attacks worldwide lead to fatalities, making this most recent incident a rare and devastating occurrence. One man and one woman are dead after being mauled by a grizzly bear while hiking in a remote part of Banff National Park, west of Sundre, Alta., says Parks Canada. The couple’s dog was also killed in the attack. Park officials say the bear was later located and euthanized. This tragic incident took place on September 29th, 2023.
A few other attacks over the years included one from Alberta, 2021: A hiker in Alberta encountered a black bear and her cubs. The bear exhibited defensive behavior, leading to a non-fatal attack. The hiker suffered injuries but survived. And another in British Columbia, 2020 where a woman in British Columbia was attacked by a grizzly bear while hiking. The bear, likely defending its cubs, inflicted serious injuries, and the woman did not survive.
Preparation for Solo Work in Bear Country
Bear-Resistant Food Storage: When working alone, it's essential to store food securely to avoid attracting bears to the work site. Invest in bear-resistant containers or use methods such as bear hangs to keep food out of reach.
Bear Spray: Carry bear spray and ensure that you know how to use it effectively. This can be a valuable tool in deterring bears and preventing potential confrontations. There are several training providers that will teach you when to deploy they spray and how to most effectively use it in an emergency.
Communication Devices: Always have reliable communication devices, such as satellite phones or two-way radios, to stay in contact with colleagues or emergency services, especially in areas with limited cell reception.
Bear-Proof Camp Setup: If camping in bear country, set up a bear-proof camp by choosing appropriate tent locations and keeping cooking and sleeping areas separate.
Educate Yourself: Learn about the behavior of bears and understand their habitats. This knowledge can help you make informed decisions about where and how to work safely.
Distinguishing Between Black and Brown Bears
Physical Features:
Size: Brown bears are generally larger than black bears.
Shoulder Hump: Brown bears have a noticeable shoulder hump, while black bears have a straighter back.
Muzzle Shape: Brown bears often have a concave or dished facial profile, while black bears have a straighter nose.
Tracks:
Claw Marks: Black bear claws are usually shorter and less prominent than those of brown bears.
Toe Arrangement: Brown bear tracks often show a more symmetrical, straighter alignment of toes compared to the more splayed appearance of black bear tracks.
Bear awareness is an integral part of working in remote sites, especially when operating alone. By taking proactive measures, such as secure food storage, carrying bear spray, and understanding bear behavior, individuals can significantly reduce the risk of bear encounters. Distinguishing between black and brown bears based on physical features and tracks further enhances safety in bear country.
Recent cases of bear attacks in Canada underscore the importance of respecting wildlife and taking precautions. Through education, preparedness, and responsible practices, workers in remote sites can coexist with bears, minimizing the potential for conflicts and ensuring a safer working environment.
Stay Safe.
Del Pawlivsky
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