Wildlife on The Road

Looking for wildlife on the road can be fun and exciting. Different areas of the United States have an array of wildlife that can be seen from the open road. Unfortunately, wildlife will occasionally get onto the road. Knowing when to swerve your car can not only help you to save the life of an animal, it can help you prevent damage to your vehicle.

Look for Crossing Signs
Crossing signs are not always for ducks and deer. Because wildlife is different throughout the United States, you may come across crossing signs with different symbols. Even if you cannot identify the animals on the sign, you should still pay attention to your surroundings. Other animals may cross frequently at that point, even if they aren’t on the sign. Look for small animals like turtles, armadillos and cats that could get in the way.

Pay Attention to the Shoulders of the Road
Animals don’t always travel across the road. Many walk alongside it, but are rarely seen. Turtles are a great example and they can cause a lot of damage to your vehicle if you run one over. When driving, stay in your lane and be alert, especially in wooded areas.

Spot the Herd
Whether you are looking for wildlife for fun or to be safe, it is important to remember that deer and elk wander in groups. If one is spotted, more are probably in the immediate area. Slow the vehicle down and make sure none are crossing the road. Don’t rely on deer whistles or salt to keep the animals away from your car.

Should You Swerve Out of the Way?
In most cases, drivers should make an effort to swerve out of the way. If this is impossible due to oncoming traffic or other road hazards, lock the brakes and use the horn. If the animal is large, such as a moose, it may be more practical to swerve away from the animal. A moose can weigh up to 1,600 pounds and collisions often cause serious damage to the vehicle and passengers.

Whether you are looking for wildlife as you travel or are looking to be a safer driver, understanding how roads affect wildlife is important. Study tips for specific species that live in your area to gain a better understanding of what to do. This will not only help to make your journey a safer one, but a more enjoyable one. And carry UDAP Bear Spray in your vehicle at all times!

Bear Smart Communities

Building a bear-smart community refers to the act of effectively overseeing and limiting the things that attract bears into the community, managing human activities, and establishing policies and practices for non-lethal bear control techniques. While building a bear-smart community is a multifaceted task that requires strategy and hard work, here are some tips that can help you along the way to making your community bear-smart:

Conduct a Bear Hazard Assessment
Your first step in building a bear-smart community should be conducting a bear hazard assessment that will provide you with the information you need regarding where the bear problem is and what (species of bear) you’re dealing with. During your bear hazard assessment, you should identify potential human-bear conflicts and conflict zones, and start to think about bear control recommendations.

Put in Place a Plan
After a hazard assessment has been completed, you should use the information gathered from the assessment to formulate and implement a bear management plan. Putting together a plan can be hard work, and will require the cooperation of multiple agencies. The plan should highlight the roles of different organizations and agencies, and how bears will be managed if they do wander into town.

Education – Be Smart, Be Safe
One of the biggest aspects of building a bear-smart community is to educate community members about the hazards of bears and how to avoid attracting bears. Part of being bear-smart includes:
•    Properly throwing away garbage (especially food).
•    Avoiding using bird feeder during bear season.
•    Keeping lawns and yards in tip-top shape (bears love to eat dandelions and clover).
•    Keeping your car clean and free from food or anything else that might smell tempting to a bear.
•    Securing your home by keeping windows and doors closed to prevent the smell of food from wafting outdoors.
•    Using a bear-proof composter.
•    Not using citronella (the scent attracts bears).
•    Washing your barbeque grill after use.
•    Feeding pets, and keeping pet food, indoors.
•    Harvesting veggies as they ripen, as vegetables like carrots in a garden will attract bears.
•    Thinking about using electric fencing to keep bears off of property if you have a garden, chicken coops, or fruit-bearing trees or bushes.

In addition to managing properties, part of community education should include what to do while on trails and in campsites. Community members should watch out for bears while hiking, keep dogs on leaches, hike in groups rather than solo, never leave food in campgrounds, and pay attention to posted signs about bear activity.
By following the tips listed above, you’ll be well on your way to establishing a bear-safe community.

Visit our website for a UDAP Bear Fence or UDAP Bear Spray!

Surviving in the Wilderness Without Food

As much as you may love the outdoors, being lost in the wilderness with no food is a scary thought. Contrary to what some people believe, it is still possible even for a seasoned hunter to be lost for days in the wilderness. It is also very possible to survive such a scenario, but only if you keep a cool head and remember that there are always ways of surviving until you can make it back to civilization or be rescued. Here are some tips that will help if you ever find yourself lost on a hunting trip.

Plan Ahead
The biggest mistake people can make when going on a hunting or camping trip is not planning ahead. They overestimate their own survival skills or underestimate the potential dangers of the wilderness, and they pay for their mistake with their lives. Before you head out into the wilderness for any reason, make sure you know what to expect. Read up on the area, and make sure you include a map and compass with your survival gear. Even if you run out of food, a good map can at least help you get someplace safe before you die of starvation. Just be careful about traveling at night; you could get disoriented if you attempt to find your way out in total darkness, even if you have a flashlight.

As for the rest of your survival gear, it should include a simple water purification kit, a first aid kit, matches in a waterproof container, a knife, a signaling mirror and a space blanket made from reflective Mylar. Finally, make sure you tell at least one person where you are going. If you don't come back by a specific time, they can alert the authorities and send someone to find you.

Make Sure You Have Plenty of Water
People have been known to survive for days without food as long as they have enough fresh water to drink. Find a source of water as soon as possible, preferably before you are lost. This will not only keep you hydrated, but it can serve as a convenient landmark. Don't forget to use your water purification kit on any water you find.

Know What You Can Eat in the Wild
There are plenty of things you can eat in the wilderness if you know where to look. You can catch and skin a rabbit or other small animal if you have the means of cooking it, or you can look for edible plants. You may not be in love with the thought of living off of handfuls of nuts and berries in the wild, but they just might be what keeps you alive until you can be rescued. Spend some time reading up on edible plants before your trip so you know what you can and cannot eat.

Don't Panic
It's easy to panic when you find yourself lost in the wilderness, but that only wastes precious energy and causes you to make stupid mistakes. Keep a cool head and conserve your energy. All you need to do is survive, and you might find that's a lot easier than you might believe. And don’t forget your UDAP Bear Spray!

Hunting in Bear Country

Are you planning to go on a hunting trip in bear country? Obtaining the proper hunting equipment and understanding how to effectively use it can prevent a major threat to your life. Bears are a valuable species, but a number of people are afraid of them due to their nature. Understanding how a bear behaves will help hunters understand bears better, making it easier to protect yourself while hunting in bear country.

Hunt in the Right Season
Hunting season is upon us. Bears are extremely active in the fall as they are packing on as much food as possible for hibernation. It is easier to spot the bears in the fall since they are extremely active.

Don’t Surprise a Bear
One of the reasons why bears often attack is because they are startled. Hunters are focused on being quiet, and they often forget about their own safety. A bear is a solitary animal who avoids people. Normally the bear will retreat if they see or hear a human. They normally strike when they are protecting their young or their territory. Bears are surprised easily, and they can strike when they are startled.

Recognize Bear Signs
It is important to learn how to recognize bear signs. While most hunters know how to track a bear, some people are unaware of basic signs including the following:

•    Identify bear claws on the trees
•    Search for fresh tracks
•    Avoid hunting on a windy day as your scent can carry several miles away, altering a bear you are in their area
•    Hunt in a group

Invest in Gear
One of the most important things you can do is invest in the right clothing and gear for hunting. Clothing you hunt in needs to help you blend in with the scents of the area. Cover your hands and wear clothing to reduce any personal odors. Hunting with others is beneficial as it too will help you to stay safe and obtain medical attention if you are injured.

After the Kill
Hunting and cleaning a carcass is a challenge that you need to carefully follow to prevent bears from attacking. A carcass should be stored about 15 feet above the ground so you do not hang it close to where bears can reach it. Never keep food around camp as it can attract bears.

Take Precautions
It is important to focus on taking precautions before you go hunting. Learn the proper procedures to follow if you encounter a bear. The most important thing you need to remember is to stay calm. Slowly move away from the bear and give them a chance to identify you as a person that is not a threat. If the bear charges you, do not shoot. Most hunters panic when the bear is charging and they start shooting, simply wounding a bear and provoking them. The best option to use is to arm yourself with UDAP Bear Spray. Keep UDAP Bear Spray with you at all times, you never know when a bear might surprise you while you are hunting. With the right preparation and precautions, you can stay safe when you are hunting in bear country.

Bow Hunting Basics

Bow hunting is an historic activity that has been crucial to the development and survival of the human species. It has endured to be a well-respected sport in our society. If you are interested in becoming a bow hunter and unsure of where to start, this article will offer you beginner's tips on equipment, licensure, and hunting procedures.

Legal Procedures

The most important part of hunting is doing so legally. Hunting licenses are issued on a state by state basis, so you will most likely need to contact your state's Department of Game. Once you have your hunting license, you need to look up when and where you are allowed to hunt, and how much you are allowed to kill, all of which are strictly regulated.

Choosing Your Equipment

Once you've taken care of your legalities, you can move on to actually hunting. There are two basic types of bow: the compound bow and the long or recurve bow. Long and recurve bows are more primitive, while compound bows are more modern and utilize pulleys to minimize the strength you need to draw back the string.

Compound bows are better for beginners since it's easier to pull and hold the string on a compound. All bows are rated with a draw weight, so you need a good idea of your own strength and what you can handle when purchasing a bow.

Scouting a Location

Deer are the primary target for most bow hunters. Many hunters scope out the area they plan to hunt for weeks in advance in order to find spots that are highly trafficked by deer. Once you have decided on a spot, you may want to invest in a tree stand. Tree stands give you a better vantage point of your surroundings, camouflage you from potential game, and make long periods of stillness more comfortable.

Safety and Field Dressing

You'll also need to bring materials to navigate the forest and to clean and transport the deer. A flashlight and a map or compass are absolutely necessary when hunting in forested areas, solely for your own personal safety. You'll also need materials to field dress your deer. Without field dressing, it's possible that the deer meat will spoil due to its body temperature remaining high. Field dressing involves making a long incision down the deer's belly, from the sternum to the pelvic area. You want to cut through the flesh but not harm the internal organs, which you will need to remove before transporting the deer. Once the carcass is dressed, use a long rope to haul it back.

This is a very basic overview of bow hunting. If you are serious about becoming a bow hunter, visit your local sporting goods or outdoor store and talk to an expert about your specific needs. For all of your Bear Spray needs please visit UDAP.com today!

Backpacking For Recreation and Enjoyment

Backpacking is something that millions of people all over the world enjoy. Some go backpacking for the enjoyment of nature and the ability to get out and hike on a beautiful trail. Others go backpacking for the sport of it and the ability to get in great shape. Whatever the reason, backpacking is a popular and healthy recreational activity that promotes health and encourages a respect for nature. Enjoying a hike can be done in various types of terrains and areas. It is important to have the proper backpacking equipment as well as the knowledge to navigate the area.

Things Needed For Safe Backpacking
In order to backpack safely, it's important to have the right equipment and even the right people surrounding you. If you are new to backpacking, it is recommended to have a partner to go along with you. Sometimes, there are group hiking trips so that it can be safer for everyone involved. Having a partner that is trusted or a group of hikers to go with can ensure a safer backpacking adventure. People going backpacking for the first time often find there are some things they weren't expecting and having someone with knowledge along for the trip can be a huge help.

Once a partner or group is picked, the next step is to pick a destination. Choosing a destination can be based on factors that are important to everyone hiking. For those that are interested in certain types of terrains, there are guidebooks and magazines that can suggest various trails and give a description of the terrain. For those that are more experienced, it may be possible to choose a more challenging terrain to hike. For beginners, it is important to choose a terrain that is forgiving enough yet still carries the ability to give a challenging and fun experience. Guidebooks and magazines often have detailed reviews of hiking trails and even have maps of the entire trail. It is recommended to have a map of the hiking trail to take on a backpacking trip just in case.

When choosing a destination, it is imperative to choose one that can be hiked safely in a certain amount of time. Inexperienced backpackers may want to go on a shorter trip, typically less than ten miles. More experienced backpackers may choose to hike for several days and there should be a plan to stop and relax along the way. It's important to have all of the necessary supplies regardless of how long you plan on staying. Planning ahead is the key to having a successful backpacking trip.

Supplies needed for the trip should be chosen carefully. It is important to pack enough water for the trip and calculate how much water will be needed for the planned amount of time. A map should be brought along of the hiking trail and kept in a protective cover in case of bad weather. A compass is always a handy tool to have as well. Other supplies to bring are: sun protection, flashlights, matches, first aid kits, lighters, a tent, and food. It is recommended to pack all the supplies into the backpack and practice hiking around with the weight of the full pack. This will ensure that you will have enough strength to hike with the backpack and have a successful trip.

Mistakes Made in The Great Outdoors

Hiking, camping and backpacking are all excellent ways to experience the wonder of the Great Outdoors. However, it can also be a dangerous way to witness Mother Nature in all her fury. Simple common mistakes made hastily can have inconvenient and even disastrous consequences. Here we explore some common mistakes average people make when enjoying nature.

Failure to Prepare
Whether you forget to bring a map and determine your route beforehand or you make a rookie mistake like not bringing enough water, you could add hours or even days to your trip if you get lost -- no to mention lose expensive equipment along the way. That's why it's crucial to sit down before hand -- even with a hike that you've done many times before -- and map out your route, procure rations and make sure you have the proper gear.

Ignoring Signs
You may think you can handle a bigger workout than you're actually trained for because at the bottom of a mountain, anything seems possible. Halfway up and you may reconsider. By then it could be too late and you're already committed to the summit run. Pay attention to marked trails and their ratings. Don't go for an intense trail with lots of climbing and scaling if you're just out for a casual scenic hike. Instead, pick a trail for your fitness level and gradually work your way up in ratings over time. Also, don't go off the marked trail. Doing so could send you on a route that could get you lost in no time.

Failing to Test out New Equipment
One of the biggest mistakes in camping in particular is not testing out equipment such as grills, tents and even sleeping bags beforehand. Before you head out on your trip, make sure the grill works and that you have enough propane to fuel it. Nothing kills a good camping buzz faster than hungry kids huddled around the grill mad at Dad who can't get the darn thing to work. Set up the tent in the backyard before going, too. Make sure you know exactly how to put it together to save yourself the hassle of wrestling with directions at the camp site. Pack all components of the tent with you, including rain covers and stakes, so you're well prepared.

Leaving out Food and Toiletries
Most people know not to leave out food at a campsite, especially at night when asleep, so that bears and other large animals don't come a-hunting. But most people don't realize that many critters, such as raccoons and squirrels, are attracted by the smells of toiletries like toothpaste, soap and bug repellant. Keep these securely packed away as well to avoid unwelcome visitors.

Be careful on your next hiking or camping trip by preparing beforehand so you can have the most enjoyable time possible.

College Campus Safety

Rape is practically an epidemic on college campuses. Statistics show that college-aged students are at the highest risk of being raped or sexually assaulted, and many of these assaults are by someone the victim knows well. It's a frightening thought, especially for those who are going away to college for the first time this fall.

Rape and sexual assault are serious issues that nobody should have to face first-hand, and although rape is never the fault of the victim there are still plenty of things that college-age students can do to keep themselves safe.

Walking to Class or Walking Home
Contrary to what some people believe, most rapes aren't committed by strangers who attack women late at night. Most rapes are committed by those who know the victim. Then again, "stranger rapes" can still happen to people walking home at night, along with muggings and other forms of assault. To protect yourself, try not to go out by yourself after dark if you can help it. Walk with friends, try to stick to well-lit or crowded places, avoid shortcuts and don't wear headphones or ear buds. If someone asks you for directions or a question from a vehicle, answer from a distance. Don't get within arms length of the vehicle. Finally, if you are assaulted during your walk, it helps to have a can of pepper spray with you. Pepper spray is very painful when sprayed into the eyes, and it has been known to incapacitate even the largest and most dangerous assailants.

Drinking Responsibly
Whether people want to admit it or not, drinking alcohol is a big part of the college experience. Schools are full of young men and women who are away from home for the first time and may be getting their first true taste of alcohol. Needless to say, they don't always handle it responsibly. Sadly, many people also take advantage of this kind of irresponsible drinking and use it as a chance (or excuse?) to sexually assault others.

If you go to a party, a bar or anywhere else where you may be drinking, do your best to be responsible. Don't drink on an empty stomach since that will cause the alcohol to be absorbed by your body more quickly, always make sure that you have a sober friend with you and keep a close eye on your drink so that nobody has the chance to slip something into it.

Above all else, learn to trust your gut whenever you're in an unfamiliar situation. If something doesn't feel right to you or you feel uncomfortable about a certain situation, don't be afraid to leave. Your intuition can tell you more than you know, so you should listen to it at all times. It could save your life. And be sure to carry UDAP Pepper Spray the world’s hottest pepper spray!

Four Tips to Prepare Anyone for Any Hike

Hiking is a fun past time that brings out the most adventurous at heart who wish to experience complete nature submersion, as well as physical challenges that promote a healthy lifestyle. While it may be tempting to just take off into nature, there are some important tips that can help you enjoy your time hiking even more. With some attention to some key details, you can be sure to have a fun and safe hike.

Plan Ahead
Hiking is something that like the boy scouts, you need to be prepared for. Research what each trail consists of before venturing down it, so that you know what you are up against, and are able to bring the proper equipment, according to the Grand Canyon National Park Service. Plenty of water is essential for any hike. It is also important to bring energy boosting snacks. An extra supply is also a good idea, in case of an emergency. One should also be aware of the weather, and make sure to dress appropriately and wear sunscreen. When venturing out on a hike, use the buddy system and to try not to hike alone. Hats, UDAP Bear Spray Backpack, non-cotton clothing, bandanas, ID, healthcare cared, and credit card, and a first aid kit with a fire starting mechanism are useful tools to have when embarking on a long hike.

Leave No Trace
When you are enjoying nature, and the unspoiled natural environment you are in, it is important to leave the environment in the condition in which you found it, according to Alexander Davies of Discovery News. With the exception of picking up human waste and litter left behind by former hikers, it is best to leave the natural habitat as it is. If rock piles are discovered, you should leave them be. You should not carve out new trails, or destroy living matter. You should not do anything that would cause the natural living organisms of the wild to experience any difficulties; causing them to become sick, or even die. This is to ensure that the cherished natural spaces remain in such a state for future generations to come. You must be respectful of nature, and do all that is possible to reduce their impact and footprint upon it. It is as beautiful as it is still because of its lack of human inhabitation.

Have the Proper Gear
In addition to the above-mentioned food, water, and clothing, you should be sure to carry a compass, pocketknife and map. If the hike takes place where the weather gets cold, it is best to bring warm clothing. When camping overnight, it is key to have really great gear such as a UDAP Bear Spray, tent, camping pad, sleeping back, backpack, etc. These can aid in your survival, not matter how rough the conditions.

Be Cognizant of Wild Animals
You may encounter a wild animal, or several during a hike, make sure that you are carrying your UDAP Bear Spray. Be sure to research the wild animals of the area that you are going to be hiking in, as well as studying these animals, and the ways in which you should interact when faced with such a confrontation. Be respectful of the animals and know which plants are edible, as well as which insects, spiders, and snakes are poisonous.

Having the best hiking equipment can aid in preparations for what is ahead. Protection from harmful forces is greater when the equipment used is of the highest quality.

Summer Has Finally Arrived

Summer has finally arrived! Woohoo! Let the camping and hiking begin. If you are heading to bear country, don’t forget to bring along your UDAP Bear Spray!  Being prepared in bear country can be the difference between life and death. And now, you can stay safer than ever before!

UDAP now carries the Back Attack Pack™, which allows you to protect yourself from unexpected charges from behind, AND even when you’re pinned on the ground. Yes, you still have a line of defense!

Produced by a grizzly bear attack survivor, this product is a must-have. To be used in addition with UDAP bear sprays as a backup only.

So go out and enjoy the summer, enjoy bear country, and be SAFE!

Smartphone Theft On The Rise

Smartphone thefts rose again in 2013 despite efforts to stop them.  According to the Huffington Post, it has become an epidemic of violent street crimes. Police Departments nation wide have stepped up efforts to educate the public on Smartphone theft safety to prevent being a victim of robbery.

There is currently a nationwide effort to encourage Smartphone makers to create a “kill switch” that will render the phone useless if stolen. Some companies are implementing kill switches and while others are looking at it, Smartphone users need to become more aware of their surroundings. Watch the people around them, whether sitting in a restaurant or walking down the street.

UDAP Pepper Power has two products that can assist you in staying safe. UDAP self defense pepper spray!

The Difference between a Black Bear and a Grizzly Bear

Have you ever wondered what the differences between a black bear and a grizzly bear are? One major difference is the size. Size can vary depending on the age and gender of the bear. An adult black bear can be larger than a sub-adult (juvenile) grizzly bear. Size can also vary among geographic areas, as well.

Please note that there are many physical indicators between a black bear and a grizzly bear: and they vary with sex and age, so size is also not a reliable indicator. Identifying the type of bear that you see is important for your safety and to protect bears. When you know if it’s a grizzly or a black bear, you can then decide on the best actions to take.

Don’t forget to always carry your UDAPBear Deterrent!

Bear Spray Can Prevent Dog Attacks Too!

Now that the weather has gotten nicer, many folks are walking around their neighborhoods and walking paths, taking in the beautiful the spring colors and warmth. Enjoying the warm sun until a dog jumps out of the bushes and charges! UDAP Bear Spray can stop a grizzly bear but it can also stop a ferocious dog as well.

Here is a link to a story where a man was attacked by a dog in Lethbridge, Canada. The dog had never attacked anyone before, the owner stated.  You never know where or when an angry dog will come at you when you are out walking, so be sure to always carry your UDAP Bear Spray!

Read more of the Lethbridge, Canada attack here…

Travel Safely in Bear Country

Here is a list for traveling safely in Bear Country!

1.      Where should I keep my food?

·         UDAP makes bear electric fences for the backcountry including electric fences for food storage and camping. Keep the bears out with BearShock!

·          don’t leave pet food or garbage in areas where bears can get to it.

·          Place garbage in a heavy duty-duty, tied bag. Put the bag inside a garbage can with a bear-proof lid.

·          Beehives attract bears. If you have hives put them up high on hear-proof platforms.

Keep your food and equipment safe In Bear Country!

2.      How should people visiting bear country behave

Bears are typically afraid and nervous around people. They will avoid humans. Bears may attack people when they feel threatened or surprised or when forced to defend themselves, their cubs, or their food. You should be careful to avoid all bears. Here are some specific tips:

·         Make noise, let bears know you’re there.

·         Travel in groups. Groups are noisier and there is safety in numbers.

·         Keep your dog on a leash at all times.

·         Stick to worn paths and trails and hike during the day, not at night.

·         Watch for bears for signs of them, including bear tracks and droppings.

·         Avoid areas where you spot potential bear food.

·         Don’t forget to carry your UDAPBEAR SPRAY!

Bears Coming Out of Hibernation Early

Bears came out of hibernation early this winter on the west coast due to abnormal dry winter and drought. Because of these same weather conditions, black bears may come down closer and closer to where people are looking for food. Do you have your bear spray handy and/or a plan ready for a black bear encounter? To learn more about the black bears coming out of hibernation early, you can read this article published by CBS news!

Read more here...

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Camping in the Back Country of Montana

One of the biggest chores in the backcountry is hanging your food in the trees so bears won't get to it. It is very time consuming. Not any longer, thanks to the Bear Shock® Food Storage ElectricFence for the backcountry. 

Nothing says Montana like a backcountry camping experience! But while you are out enjoying the Big Sky Country, please be BEAR AWARE! Being bear-friendly in Montana is something that we pride ourselves on. And it does come with sacrifice—the welfare of the bear always come first even if it means that we won’t be able to see a bear or get that perfect picture. It means taking steps to prevent bears from finding sources of food on your property or when you are out camping like using our Bear Shock® Food Storage Electric Fence.

Did you know that once a bear is food-trained, it is often impossible to un-train them. That is why biologists so often say a fed bear is a dead bear. So let’s don’t feed the bears!

Your attentiveness in keeping your outdoor camp space "Bear Friendly" is doing your part to keep Montana's grizzly and black bears wild and free.

"Bear Friendly" means allowing every bear to retain its wild and free nature.

Hiking in Montana

Do you enjoy hiking in Montana? Where is your favorite spot? A few great spots to hike in Montana include:

Mystic Lake is a 7 mile out and back trail located near Fishtail, Montana. The trail is primarily used for hiking and is accessible from May until October.

The Beaten Path (Backpacking) is a 26 mile point-to-point trail located near Roscoe, Montana and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking and is accessible from June until November.

Beartooth Highway: Silver Gate to Red Lodge is a 70 mile point-to-point scenic drive near Red Lodge, Montana. The trail is primarily used for birding, mountain biking and scenic driving and is accessible from June until October.

And while you’re out hiking in Montana this spring, protect your backside! UDAP offers the first revolutionary change in bear spray delivery in 20-years! The Back Attack Pack™, be prepared for your hike as well as any wild animals that may come charging along the trail.

What Is The Official Day of Spring?

What is the official day of Spring for 2014? It’s March 20^th and with spring comes hiking and fishing and lots of outdoor activities. Have you checked your UDAP Bear Spray to be sure that you have plenty on hand? All UDAPBear Spray has an expiration date on them, be sure to check and make sure that your can of Bear Spray hasn’t expired. Our products have a shelf life of 4 years, but you should always check your Bear Spray each season or whenever it’s sat on a shelf for a long period of time.

With the unusual amount of snowfall this winter, we are all going to be ready for SPRING and outdoor activities with our friends and family! So enjoy your Spring, your friends and family and be SAFE!

Bear Spray vs. Bullets

Even though the Chicago Bears didn’t get in the Super Bowl XLVIII, the game between, bear spray vs bullets,  has already been played and won. The winner is bear spray hands down! The firearm team played a good game and they believe that a person needs a hand gun or rifle to stop an angry bear. But the pro bear spray team has been adamant that bear spray works.

And the bear spray team won this super bowl, but we don’t want you to take our word for it, in a recent study done by Tom S. Smith, Stephen Herrero, Terry D. Debruyn and James M. Wilder bear spray lead its team to victory.

The Results of Bear Spray vs a Firearm

Bear incidents involving 175 persons resulted in 3 injuries, all minor (less than 2% injury rate). Firearms incidents involving 478 persons resulted in 17 fatalities (15%), 25 severe injuries (22%), 42 suffered moderate injury (37%), 29 suffered slight injuries (26%), for a total 113 injuries (24% injury rate). Hence firearm users experienced 12 times the injury rate of those using bear spray!

Of the 71 cases where persons sprayed bears to defend themselves, 14% (10 to 71) of users reported the spray having had negative side effects upon themselves, ranging from minor irritation (11%, 8 of 71) to near incapacitation (3%, 2 of 71).

Firearm failures were identified in 100 firearm cases, where users reported mechanical or physical issues with the use of a firearm, including lack of time (32%), unable to use firearm due to situation, such as having your partner in your line of fire (21%), mechanical issues (11%), safety/holster issues (95), insufficient caliber/no bullets left (9%), distance to bear (8%), missed bear (6%), or tripped and fell (4%).

No bears were injured in conflicts involving bear spray, however, 23 bears were wounded and 176 killed in incidents involving firearms.

Why bear spray is the winner…

Bear Deterrent Pepper Spray works better in a bear attack situation because of its ease of use. Aiming is not a big factor like it is with a firearm and you are not relying on a bullet to stop the bear by hitting it in a vital spot. Even when this is the case, sometimes the bear can advance and attack if it does not expire right away. This can actually work against the gun user as now you have a wounded bear and this may intensify the attack. With bear spray you’re not stopping the bear with pain necessarily. You might think this as it really is painful to be sprayed. However, what you’re really doing is taking away the bears senses. The bear’s sight is impaired, but more importantly its breathing and sense of smell are blasted away by the spray. Anyone that has ever been hit with a fog pattern pepper spray can tell you how difficult it is to breathe when sprayed. It actually can be like a shot to the head, since the bear navigates primarily with its nose. For a bear, this is certainly the case. The bear will have no idea what is happening and this changes the behavior the bear was displaying prior to being sprayed.

When you use bear pepper spray you’ve truly have the home field advantage! GO UDAP BEAR PEPPER SPRAY!

What is The Difference Between Bear Spray and Pepper Spray?

Pepper sprays for your key chain and the like do not work on bears. The minimum size of for bear pepper spray is 7.9 ounces or 225 grams. Each bear deterrent will contain an EPA registration and establishment number, date code and the words “bear deterrent,” “bear spray,” “bear pepper spray,” “bear mace” or “bear repellant.” Bear repellant is not a very suitable word for this product and only one manufacturer uses it. The word repellent can confuse the user in to thinking that they can spray themselves or equipment like you do a bug repellent spray.

This is NOT true nor is it the proper way to use bear deterrent. You need to actually spray low in front of the charging bear, for it to be used correctly. 

This creates a protective barrier between you and the animal. In 1999, the EPA wanted to specifically label bear spray as a repellant. However, this misleads the public and the vendors into thinking that this product was to be applied to themselves and the site or equipment just like bug repellant spray. Mark Matheny worked diligently to change the word from repellant to deterrent and to stop the misuse of the product and to explain further the proper use of the spray for deterring a potential bear attack. Even though the words deterrent and repellant have the same meaning, repellant is used in relation to insect spray so commonly that deterrent is a much better fit.