Bear spray has been proven to be highly effective. It is an essential item to have with you in bear country. Not only with you, but on your side and ready to use if necessary.
Is it legal to carry bear spray in Alberta?
It is perfectly legal to carry bear spray in Alberta. In fact, it is highly encouraged and recommended by the provincial government.
It is also recommended that you carry noise makers as well. Noise makers help the bear be aware of your presence from further away. The bear spray is for a closer encounter.
This does not mean you can randomly use any pepper spray or other similar chemical. The active ingredient in bear spray is oleoresin capsicum.
It is important that you are purchasing a product that is labelled as bear spray. The canister should say ”for deterring bear attacks”.
You can carry bear spray, but you can not take it on commercial airplane with you.
Regular pepper spray is illegal in Canada. It is considered to be an unauthorized weapon.
In Summary
- It is legal to carry bear spray in Alberta, but it has to be a canister labelled as bear spray and states that it is intended for deterring bear attacks.
- The provincial government recommends bear spray and noisemakers when hunting, camping, or hiking in bear country.
- Pepper spray is illegal in Canada.
