Two men jogging on the Matcheetawin Discovery Trails outside Fort McMurray, Alta., were not expecting a close encounter of the black bear kind.
In a tense video posted to YouTube, a full-grown bear appears from the woods toward the end of Bruce Allan and Greg Armour's June 5 run.
As the bear becomes increasingly aggressive and begins to circle the men, the pair can be heard trying to plan a way to scare off the bear.
Allan told CTV News that he and his running partner were "ready for him to pretty much pounce" at any time.
“It was just a matter of trying to keep together and keep focused and work until we had a chance.”
They both grabbed big rocks for self-defence, but never had to use them.
Around the four-minute mark of the video, as the bear attempts to climb a small tree, the men get some distance from the bear and sprint to safety.
According to Alberta Parks, Tourism and Recreation, if you encounter a bear you should follow these steps:
- STOP! STAY CALM. Your calm behaviour can reassure the bear. Screams or sudden movements may trigger an attack.
- NEVER RUN - running may cause the bear to pursue you.
- Pick up small children and stay in a group.
- Bears may approach or stand on their hind legs to get a better look at you or to pick up your scent. This is their way of identifying you and is not an aggressive response.
- BE HUMAN. Speak to the bear calmly and firmly. This indicates that you are not a prey animal. Appear passive.
- If you have bear (pepper) spray, get your hands on it and be ready to use it. Take note of the direction and strength of the wind.
- Keep your backpack, hiking poles and other equipment — they can provide protection.
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