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Three5nMthaFka38 karma

I was a firefighter (Hotshot/Helitack), Wilderness Ranger, Guide, EMT, Hunter/Angler, amateur mountaineer, Backcountry skier, all around woodsman. I've also done some stupid stuff in the backcountry to get myself into survival situations once or twice. I think I could teach this stuff, how would a guy like me get into that?

Also, I respectfully disagree with some of your bear encounter advise.

Three5nMthaFka34 karma

Wilderness ranger in the Mission mountains wilderness, Flathead National Forest, Northwest MT just Southwest of Glacier National Park, Grizzly Country. I believe it is recommended to not make eye contact while backing away and speaking to the bear in a low, non threatening voice. Do not turn and run as it could trigger a chase instinct. A Grizzly will attack if it feels threatened. Making loud noise and waiving sticks/throwing rocks might be better used with black bears without cubs present and mountain lions. If the bear charges, spray it in the face with bear spray. If it is on you then curl into a ball protecting your neck. I have encountered Grizzly bears in the backcountry on many occasions and black bears even more. Usually they see me and run away. I have been mock charged by a sow Griz with cubs came very close to discharging bear spray but I was too busy shitting my pants.

I'm still interested in how you got into instructing.

Three5nMthaFka17 karma

I think the main thing with bears is to be non aggressive.

Thanks for the info. More people should have this kind of basic knowledge. You never know when you'll need it. Stay safe!