"Knowing what to do in the event of a close encounter with a bear was once a concern only for hikers and foragers in Japan. Now, however, people in populated areas are being urged to learn how to protect themselves following a spate of attacks, as the animals leave their natural habitats in search of food. Bear encounters are generating almost daily headlines."
"The consensus is that anyone who finds themselves face to face with a bear should avoid eye contact and sudden movements, and back away slowly without turning their back on the animal. They should not attempt to run or scale a tree feats that bears perform with far greater speed and agility than humans. If a mauling seems inevitable, experts advise victims to lie on the ground face down and protect their heads and necks."
"In a study released at the weekend, experts at Akita University said those measures tended to result in less serious injuries after surveying 70 people who had been injured in attacks in Akita prefecture a bear hotspot. All seven of the respondents who had laid face down and used their hands to protect their head and neck escaped serious injury, the study said."
Bear attacks are increasing across Japan as animals leave habitats seeking food, prompting warnings for residents. Recent incidents in Akita prefecture included attacks on a jogger and a walker, and a bear that terrorised four people before entering a house; nine deaths have occurred since April, the highest annual total on record. Precautions include avoiding eye contact and sudden movements, backing away slowly, not running or climbing trees, and lying face down while protecting the head and neck if attacked. A study of 70 injured people in Akita prefecture found those who lay face down and shielded their heads avoided serious injury. Other measures include carrying bells, staying in groups, and using repellent spray where available.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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