Ah, the seasonal debate is back.

There have been several serious bear interactions on this side of the border as well. Humans go into bear territory at this time of year, and on the rare occasions where nothing goes right, they (and the bear) make the news.

As far as is humanly possible, the first defence is prevention, prevention, prevention. This is not completely foolproof (things happen), but it has a high enough record of success that you would bet real money on it and expect a payoff if you were a serious gambler.

Last ditch efforts, spray and firearm at close range, are never completely reliable; too many variables. Placed in that situation, you do what you can with what you have.