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How can I stay safe while camping in bear country

**Keep Your Food Locked Up**: Always store your food in bear-proof containers or hang it high in a tree away from your campsite. Bears have a crazy sense of smell, so anything that smells like food can attract them.

**Make Noise**: When you’re hiking or moving around your campsite, make some noise! Talk, sing, or clap your hands to let bears know you’re around. They usually prefer to avoid humans, so making your presence known can help.

**Set Up Camp Wisely**: Pick a campsite that’s away from berry patches or animal trails. Also, set up your tent at least 100 yards away from where you store your food. That way, if a bear does come sniffing around, you’ll be safe.

**Know What to Do if You See a Bear**: If you spot a bear, don’t run! Stay calm and back away slowly while keeping your eyes on the bear. If it approaches, make yourself look bigger and make noise to scare it off. Just remember, most bears are just as scared of you as you are of them!