Emergency responders employ drones to locate an injured Alaska hiker who reportedly became immobilized following an encounter with a grizzly bear on a frequented trail.
A woman was recently mauled by a grizzly bear while hiking on the Basher Trail in the Chugach Mountains, located near Anchorage, Alaska. The incident occurred around 2:30pm on July 22.
The woman, who has not been identified, called 911 for assistance after the attack. Multiple agencies, including Anchorage PD, Alaska Department of Fish and Game, and Alaska State Troopers, responded to the scene. Drone technology was used to locate the woman, which took around one hour. She was airlifted from the scene to the hospital, and fortunately, her injuries are reported to be non-life threatening.
The Alaska Department of Fish and Game has closed the area for searches for the bear. Officials are advising everyone in the vicinity to brush up on their bear safety and carry bear spray.
When hiking in grizzly bear country, it is crucial to take specific precautions to ensure safety. In the Chugach Mountains, these precautions include making noise frequently to avoid surprising a bear, storing food properly away from your sleeping area, keeping a clean camp, carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it, understanding bear behavior, traveling in groups if possible, preparing mentally and physically for the environment, and avoiding hiking quietly in dense brush or near streams.
In the event of a confrontation with a grizzly bear, it is recommended to remain calm and play dead. To play dead, lie flat on your stomach with your hands clasped behind your neck and spread your legs to make it harder for the bear to turn you over. Remain as motionless as possible until the bear leaves the area. If the attack persists, fighting back vigorously with whatever you have at hand can help deter the bear. Hitting the bear in the face with a branch, rocks, or one of your boots can be effective.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of following safety guidelines when hiking in grizzly bear country. For more information on what to do if you meet a bear, please refer to our article on the topic. Stay safe and enjoy the great outdoors!
In light of the recent attack, it's imperative to prioritize safety while engaging in outdoor-living activities, such as hiking in the Chugach Mountains. To ensure a safe home-and-garden experience, individuals should also be mindful of bear safety protocols when spending time in their backyards. Sports enthusiasts, too, must consider the potential presence of bears when planning their activities in the area.
