Bear spray is an effective deterrent that inflames the eyes and upper respiratory system, using a high concentration of capsaicin to inflict temporary pain on a subject. Capsaicin is an extract from chili peppers used in everything from hot sauce to homeopathic remedies. Bear spray contains 1-2% capsaicin and capsaicinoids as per EPA guidelines, and typically has an effective range of 25 feet or more.
The spray is remarkably effective at deterring attacks from many types of bears. Between 1996 and 2006, bear spray showed a 90% effectiveness across 40 incidents excluding those in which the product was misused. Even in cases where a bear remained agressive after being sprayed the first time, repeated spraying was usually effective at deterring the animals. While bear spray typically has an effective range of 25-40 feet, a blast carried with the wind can deter from even further.
The people in this clip are easily a bus length or more from this young grizzly, but a small cloud of bear spray still manages to force the bear away. In a case of an agressive or charging bear, the spray should be deployed within the effective range and a burst should last 2-3 seconds, rather than this quick half a second blast. If the bear continues to approach spray it again.
Alaska Department of Fish & Game Bear Spray Tips:
BEAR SPRAY IS A DETERRENT made of red pepper oil (oleoresin of capsaicin). It inflames the eyes and upper respiratory system. If used properly, it can effectively deter an aggressive bear.
TREAT BEAR SPRAY LIKE A FIREARM. Contents are under pressure: Spray comes out at more than 70 mph and could cause permanent eye damage.
DO NOT PRE-SPRAY OBJECTS. Bear spray does not work like an insect repellent. If used this way, it may actually attract a bear because of the residue’s strong odor.
WHEN PURCHASING, look for canisters marked “Bear Spray” or “Bear Deterrent” with an EPA registration, 1-2% capsaicin and capsaicinoids, and a 25-foot (8 m) or more range.
KEEP SPRAY away from heat (120°F) and cold (-7°F). In extreme heat, pressure can build until the canister explodes; in extreme cold, pressure may decrease so the canister may not spray properly.
KEEP IN MIND WHEN TRAVELING that safety regulations prohibit airlines from transporting bear spray. If traveling in small planes or helicopters, be sure to inform the pilot before your departure. The pilot may allow you to store bear spray in a float or outer compartment of the aircraft.
WHEN CAMPING, keep bear spray accessible at night.
IF YOU HAVE A PARTIALLY USED CANISTER of bear spray or if it is beyond its expiration date, dispose of it or use it for training purposes. Do not rely on it as a deterrent. A completely emptied bear spray canister may be discarded as trash or it may be disposed of as hazardous waste. Check with your local waste authority.