Purpose

  1. Bear spray is a liability. It’s something we’re far more likely to have to treat than use. Our purpose here is to ensure we adhere to good procedure and safely carry and deal with bear spray on our trips.
  2. Spray comes out at more than 70 mph and could cause permanent eye damage. Care is warranted.

Scope

Storing, transporting, carrying and using bear spray for Expeditions Alaska trips

Storage and Transportation

  1. If purchasing bear spray, look for canisters marked “Bear Spray” or “Bear Deterrent” with an EPA registration, 1-2% capsaicin and capsaicinoids, and a 25-foot (8 m) or more range.
  2. All bear spray will be stored outside WHQ in The Vault, the yellow Haz Mat cabinet on the east side of WHQ.
  3. Before returning ANY bear spray can to The Vault, double-check that the safety is on correctly, and the can is not leaking at all.
  4. Always check the expiry of ANY bear spray before returning it home. If it’s expired, we need to mark it expired and clearly indicate that it is not to be used, before we take it to the Haz-Mat for disposal.
  5. Expired bear spray does NOT go in the trash receptacle.
  6. Bear spray must not be transported inside our vehicles unless it’s inside an airtight container. A dry bag will suffice. The preferred option is for bear spray to always be inside the cargo box on top of a van.
  7. Do NOT transport loose cans of bear spray inside a vehicle.

Backcountry Flights

  1. Do not EVER fly in a plane with bear spray on your person or in your pack. Before boarding, the guide must collect all group bear spray and hand them to the pilot for travel.
  2. Most backcountry air taxis will have their own SOP regarding transportation of bear spray. Some will carry it in the floats, some in a safe airtight box in the wing, some taped to a strut. Check with your pilot.
  3. The number one, absolute MUST DO item here isDO NOT EVER FLY WITH BEAR SPRAY INSIDE THE PLANEEVER.
  4. Always check all of the group’s spray before you load the plane.ALWAYS.
  5. Remember to recover your bear spray from the pilot when you unload the plane, both in the field and when you return to town.

In The Field