I know I have commented on Bear’s show before and thought I could bite my tongue and stay out of this discussion, but my tongue was beginning to bleed too much, so here goes.

I am not as concerned about the supposed adults out there who are unable to distinguish thoughtful, useful survival skills and techniques from those which pose great risk (such as climbing up a waterfall or running down a steep spree or jumping into a river of unknown depth), but I am real concerned about the kids and teens who may seek to emulate Bear.

We have had a number of younger individuals inquire about survival skills/techniques, as they wish to “try it on their own” for a while. Hopefully, we have given good advice and they will heed our warnings and suggestions, but I imagine for every one that comes here for advice, there are likely dozens out there, that will view Bear’s show and attempt to emulate his actions.

I have said it before, a show like his, especially shown on the station on which it appears and in the portrayed format (authoritative action documentary) in which it is filmed, there is an obligation to hold it to a higher standard then a show like “Survivor”.

While it is fine to view Bear’s show as good entertainment as opposed to a serious or informative show on survival and yes, he may have valuable advise as times, including the very positive “can do” attitude, my feeling is the general public (especially kids) may not be able to distinguish the subtleties, which will eventually lead to someone’s serious injury or death.

Please keep in mind; it may not only be the individual who is attempting to emulate Bear, that is seriously injured or killed, but a rescuer who responds to the call.

Just my 2 cents, for what it is worth.

Pete