Hey, nobody wants to be attacked by a bear or mountain lion. If you are going to be in bear country, be prepared. Here are a few tips to follow to help make your next trip a safe one.

5 Tips to Avoid Animal Encounters on the Trail

1. Make some noise. You are more likely to avoid an encounter with a wild animal if it knows you're coming. Wear bear bells and / or talk loudly to your mates or even yourself to make your presence known. Don't surprise a bear.

2. Bring a friend. Travelling in a group is much safer than travelling solo. Always hike with one or more partners when travelling in bear country.

3. No dogs. Leave your dog at home if there's a possibility for a bear encounter. Dogs and bears don't mix, and can lead to needless encounters.

4. Keep your campsite clean and odor free. Store all food and other fragrant items like toothpaste in a vehicle or in a properly hung food cache. Use bearproof dumpsters for your garbage when available.

5. Don't disturb bears. If you see a bear and it has not noticed you, back away, go back or circle far around. Do not try to get its attention for pictures.