SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/hike-black-bear-response

If a black bear attacks you, what does the Park Service say to do?

Do not play dead. Escape to a car or building, or fight back.

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  1. Play dead and lie still
  2. Climb the nearest tree
  3. Escape to a car or building, or fight back ✔

Why: For black bears, the Park Service says do not play dead. Get to a car or building, or fight back with any object, aiming at the face.

Huh, didn't know that: Black bear attacks are very rare. Grizzly attacks are different: there you play dead.

The dad joke
I told a black bear to back off. He said bear with me.
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References

Answer: Escape to a car or building, or fight back. For black bears, the Park Service says do not play dead. Get to a car or building, or fight back with any object, aiming at the face.

  1. NPS: Staying Safe Around Bears www.nps.gov/subjects/bears/safety.htm
    Try to escape to a secure place such as a car or building.
    Checked 2026-10-12.
  2. NPS: Bear Attacks www.nps.gov/articles/bearattacks.htm
    If a black bear charges and attacks you, FIGHT BACK WITH EVERYTHING YOU HAVE! Do not play dead.
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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