Law enforcement probably carries millions of flares in their patrol cars. In my years of service, I have never heard of a roadflare accidental discharge.

Has anyone ever used a flare against a bear? It's hard for me to believe that this might work. Harder to believe that one would trust their life to depending on it. A flare, in my mind, is an up-close, contact weapon. Imagine how much time you are going to need for it to work, when all the while the bear is charging and mauling.

I would want some bear spray and a firearm.