**N/A** The EPA does not have established minimums or maximums for spray range or time of continuous spray. However, registrants must submit data on the spray pattern of the products to include distances and seconds of effective spraying. This information is required to be on the label.
Counter Assault Exceeds ALL Recommendations!
The above chart reflects recommendations as suggested by bear biologists, wildlife specialists and individuals who have been involved in confrontation with bears and field testing.
Why Is a Minimum of Six Seconds Important?
In case there is more than one bear, such as mother bear with mature cubs, each one may be charging from different directions.
More than one bear at a fresh kill site.
Wind may reduce distance. Rain and cold weather.
More than one charge from a bear.
More than one encounter.
Reserve for hiking out.
Why Is a Minimum of 25 Feet Important?
Bears can charge at speeds up to 30+ mph. They need sufficient time to change from a contact charge to a bluff charge.
If a bear is going to charge more than once, it creates a barrier zone for the bear to have to reenter.
Wind may reduce the distance. If a can is capable of spraying 25 feet, it may be reduced to 15 or 18 feet, but a can that only sprays 18 feet may be reduced to 8 or 9 feet of coverage.
There are many types of ways that bears confront people. The three most common encounter scenarios where the suggested 25 foot spray range will be most beneficial are:
A sudden close encounter defensive charge from 15-25 feet.
A full defensive charge from more than 50 feet away.
A gradual continuous approach (curious, predatory, defensive to determine what and who you are).
