This summer please be careful when you are hiking or camping in the Bear country from local areas to national parks. As Jongshindo students you must always pay attention to your environment and make sure you are aware of all dangers around you. This way you can be safe and enjoy your outdoor experience. Here are a few useful tips for you a part of our Outdoor Self-Defense program.

1. Make sure to keep a clean camp. Don't burn or bury your trash. That is like an invitation signal to a Bear.

2. Use bear-resistant garbage cans. If you see tons of trash from others, or if you see bear poop just leave the area.

3. Spray your food, tent, backpack with Lysol or a concoction of 50/50 ammonia/water. No food in our around your tent or living area. Hang your excess food at least 100 yards away from your tent. At least 10 feet up on a tree and 4 feet away from the trunk.

4. Wear unscented clothing in our out. Don't go inside your tent with breath mints, toothpaste, or anything like that. Cooking oil, dishwashing liquids, and grease smell great to a bear.

5. Don't sleep where you cook. Hide your cooler. Bears love them.

6. Clean up your car. When walking, make noise to warn wildlife about your presence. This way you won't startle them.

7. Look for bear hair on tree trunks. You may be walking in a bear's territory. So be aware!

8. Carry a bear spray.

Also a good reading: Living with Bears by L. Masterson