[pct-l] Wasp Spray

[Robert L Geib]

For consideration, whereas Bear Spray is an "irritant" and specifically designed for it's intended use, the suggested alternative of Wasp Spray is not bear-friendly.  It is a poison.   

As we teach the Boy Scouts going to Philmont, and area where there is an extremely high bear density (approximately 1 per square mile), the recommended bear procedures are not just about your safety (the boys), but also about the safety of the bear.   Once you get the hang of them, pun intended, they become a nightly ritual. 

--> Link: http://www.sccovington.com/philmont/trek_info/bearInformation/bears_procedures.htm

For anyone unfamiliar, this simple guidance is well proven to protect both the camper, and the bear population.  What I would substitute in this case, especially in areas where hanging is a problem or where you are unskilled, is to use a Ursack.  Not only is this useful for bears, but for those other little forest friends whom are even more likely to poach you dinner.    I've used one for years, and they are efficient, and have a minor weight penalty (versus loss of your supplies). 

Here is an example from REI.  https://www.rei.com/product/895691/ursack-s293-allwhite-bear-bag
- Bob

On Feb 24, 2017, at 04:12 AM, Luce Cruz <lucecruz13 at gmail.com> wrote:

Bear spray canisters have built in safety features. I've never seen a can
of wasp spray with anything near the equivalent safety features. I also
wouldn't want to expose my self and others to poison (pyrethrins) out in
the middle of nowhere.

Pepper spray is safer if you are accidentally exposed, which may be more
likely than needing bear spray.

If you hike bear smart, you won't have to worry about bears anyways. I go
hiking to leave my fears behind anyways.

-- 
Luce Cruz
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