If a polar bear starts watching or following you, it’s normal to feel scared. Try to stay calm and do what you can to look bigger, stick close to others, and grab any deterrents you’ve got handy.
Your best shot is to stand your ground with your group, back away slowly—don’t run—and use things like bear spray or flares if the bear gets too close.
Keep your backpack on and show the bear you’re not easy prey. If you’re alone, make noise and try to look as big as possible. With others, line up side by side so the bear sees one big, united front.
Practice using your deterrents and keep them ready whenever you’re in polar bear territory. That way, you can react quickly if you need to.
If you want more on what to do during a stalking encounter or how to get ready before heading into bear country, check out the next sections. There’s info on carrying deterrents and simple camp precautions that lower your risk. Polar Bear Interaction Guidelines from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
Immediate Actions If a Polar Bear Is Stalking You
Move slowly, keep your eyes on the bear, and get your deterrents ready. Watch for signs that the bear is acting like a predator, and try to keep calm.
Try to make yourself look big and not like prey, but keep a safe distance.
Recognizing Predatory Polar Bear Behavior
Predatory polar bears usually watch quietly and might follow the same trail you use. They might crouch low, take slow steps, or circle downwind to sniff you out—pretty unsettling if you ask me.
If a bear ignores loud noises, shouts, or even rocks thrown nearby, it’s probably more interested in you than just curious.
Treat staring, steady following, or slow stalking as a big red flag. Watch the wind and the bear’s body language—ears forward, head low, and a locked-in stare mean trouble.
If the bear seems bolder or keeps coming even after you try to scare it, assume it’s thinking about hunting, not running.
Staying Calm and Avoiding Panic
First, try to control your breathing and slow your movements. If you suddenly run or scream, you might trigger its chase instinct.
Speak calmly and firmly, and back away slowly—don’t turn your back.
Try to keep other people, backpacks, and kids between you and the bear if you can. Move toward higher ground or solid cover like a vehicle or building if it’s close by.
Don’t crouch, play dead, or drop stuff; those things can make you look like prey.
How to Respond Without Provoking Attack
Stand tall, raise your arms, and open your jacket if you’re wearing one to look bigger. Keep eye contact, but don’t stare aggressively. Talk in short, steady sentences to show you’re human.
Back away slowly and create distance. If the bear moves closer, shout loud, firm commands and use noise makers like an air horn.
You can throw non-food items off to the side (not at the bear) to distract it. Never run—polar bears are way faster than you.
If the bear charges, stand your ground and get ready to use your deterrent.
When and How to Use Bear Spray
Carry bear spray where you can grab it fast—on your belt or chest. If a polar bear comes within 20–30 feet and looks predatory, pull out the canister and aim just below its face.
Use short bursts and step sideways to keep your distance.
Wind can mess with the spray, so if it’s at your back, aim lower and adjust as needed. After you use the spray, move to cover and keep an eye on the bear.
If the bear gets a direct hit from the spray, back away and get help, especially if anyone breathes in the spray. For more about bear behavior and stalking, check out this guide on predatory polar bear behavior.
Preventing and Preparing for Polar Bear Encounters
Know what gear to bring, how to travel, and the places you should avoid. Plan your route, assign roles, and always keep deterrents handy.
Traveling in Groups and Making Yourself Look Bigger
Try to travel with at least three people if you can. Stay close—just a few meters apart—so you look like one big group.
Pick someone to watch ahead and behind while the rest move or work.
If a bear shows up, stand shoulder-to-shoulder to look bigger. Raise your arms, wave equipment over your head, and use bright gear or a tarp to boost your profile.
Don’t spread out or run; running can set off a chase, and polar bears (and grizzlies, for that matter) are much faster than people.
Use loud, confident commands. Practice your group’s roles before you go—who’s watching, who grabs deterrents, who calls for help.
Rehearse moving to a vehicle, shelter, or higher ground without splitting up.
Essential Gear and Deterrents for Polar Bear Country
Carry bear spray that works for big bears and cold weather—keep it on your belt or chest where you can reach it fast. Know the range, and practice using it in a safe spot before you need it.
For polar bears, you might need long-range deterrents like cracker shells or firearms (but only if you’re trained and it’s legal).
Pack a bear deterrent kit: spray, handheld flare or cracker shells where allowed, radios or a satellite phone, bright clothes, and a whistle or air horn. Store food sealed and far from where you sleep.
If you’re trained and the rules allow, you can bring a repaired rifle or licensed firearm—but only as a last resort, not your main defense.
Check local regulations about rentals and training. Swap out expired spray and test radios before you leave.
Keep deterrents where you can grab them quickly—pockets, belts, or mounts you can reach in one motion.
Avoiding Areas with High Polar Bear Activity
Check out recent bear reports and maps from local authorities before you head out. Stay away from shorelines, seal carcass sites, and known denning areas—polar bears love these spots, so your chances of running into one go way up there.
If you absolutely have to cross risky zones, stick to daylight hours. Try to travel when the wind’s in your favor, so you can pick up any smells or sounds that might tip you off.
Keep your eyes open for signs that bears are around: tracks in the snow, scat, torn-up carcasses, or fresh digging. Spot any of these? Change your route right away and let local wildlife officials or park staff know.
In towns or stations, always carry deterrents. Stick to posted rules about travel routes and safe times to move—those guidelines exist for a reason.
When you camp, set up your tent in an open area where you can see what’s coming. Assign a night watch if you can.
Keep food and waste in bear-proof containers, and stash them well away from where you sleep. If you’re working at a research site or station, go over the local polar bear safety guidance, like the Polar Bear Interaction Guidelines.
