The National Forest Service in Mississippi is reminding the public to be “Bear Aware.”

“We want everyone to stay safe and be bear aware in the great outdoors,” said Forest Supervisor Shannon Kelardy.

Black bears have an exceptionally keen sense of smell. Hikers should pack all food and personal items that smell, like toothpaste and soap, in a bear-proof container so bears and other animals cannot detect the scents.

Most bears are naturally wary of humans and tend to avoid them. However, bears are constantly searching for food. They can learn to associate people with food and become tenacious in pursuing something to eat.

To help reduce bear encounters, overnight campers at recreation sites and hikers on trails are encouraged to use permanent food storage methods. These include campground canisters, cable systems, metal poles with arms, and bear-proof metal boxes.

It is important to remember that many people never encounter a bear, but if you do, here are some tips:

• Do not run.
• Remain calm.
• Group together and pick up small. Children.
• Continue to face the bear and back away slowly, talking calmly to identify yourself as a human.
• If the bear approaches, try to scare it away by making yourself appear larger — stretch your arms overhead — and making loud noises.
• Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Bear spray is available at many outdoor retailers.

To avoid bears while hiking in the forest, be bear aware by staying away from a bear’s favorite food sources, such as berry patches, decaying logs filled with insects, and lakes or rivers teeming with fish. Also stay alert by avoiding headphones, and approach blind corners on the trail with caution.

Learn more bear safety tips at www.fs.usda.gov/visit/know-before-you-go/bears.