Stumbling upon a polar bear in the wild is something out of a nightmare. You’re in below-zero conditions, likely far from civilization, and you hear the crunch of footsteps—only they’re not your own. When you turn, you’re face to face with a polar bear, the world’s largest land carnivore. It’s charging, and it’s not exactly thrilled to see you. So, what do you do to survive? Here’s a rundown of everything you need to know about polar bears and how to react in one of nature’s scariest scenarios.
Know Where Polar Bears Roam

You’re not going to encounter a polar bear just anywhere. They roam the Arctic landscape, so if you’re in places like northern Alaska, Greenland, the Canadian territories, northern Russia, or the island region of Svalbard, you’re on their turf. In these icy and isolated places, polar bears are the apex predators, ruling over the frigid terrain and the icy waters. If you’re planning to explore these areas, knowing you might come across a polar bear should be part of your survival planning.
Meet the King of Carnivores

Polar bears aren’t just big; they’re massive. Adult males can grow to over ten feet long and weigh between 1,200 and 2,000 pounds. These powerful animals are built for hunting on land and in water, often ambushing seals and even taking on large prey like walruses. Their paws are perfectly adapted for the ice, helping them move quickly without slipping. With claws that dig into ice and a bite force that could shatter bone, this bear is a force to be reckoned with—and humans are no exception to its menu.
Outrunning? Forget About It

Thinking you might outrun a polar bear? Think again. They can reach speeds of 25 miles per hour, even on ice, and while humans slip and slide, they bound across the frozen ground with ease. If you start running, they’ll see it as an invitation to chase, and let’s be honest—you’re not going to win that race. Running will trigger their predatory instincts and make an already dangerous situation worse.
Understanding a Polar Bear’s Strength

If a polar bear attacks, it’s bringing serious force. A polar bear’s bite is ten times stronger than a human’s, with enough pressure to feel like a grand piano crashing onto your arm. Their claws, though shorter than other bears’, are hooked, allowing them to grip prey or ice with ease. Their muscles and size mean that once a bear decides to attack, it has the upper hand in every way – strength, speed, and adaptability to the environment.
Defense Plan: Electric Fences and Firearms

One of the best things you can do if you’re venturing into polar bear country is to set up a perimeter with an electric fence. A well-placed electric fence around your campsite can deliver a strong enough shock to deter a curious or aggressive bear. If a fence isn’t practical, having a firearm can be helpful, but using it requires caution. Firing a gun near the bear might be enough to scare it off. But remember, only use the weapon on the bear itself if you’re out of options and in immediate danger.
Why a Taser Won’t Help

While a taser might seem like a logical choice, it’s actually a poor tool against a polar bear. Though tasers can immobilize humans, a polar bear’s massive body and strength make it unlikely that it would have the same effect. Not only might it fail, but there’s also a chance it could make the bear angrier, escalating the situation. Relying on a taser is a risky bet with little guarantee of success.
Bear Spray and Flares

If you have bear spray, it can be one of your best defenses. Similar to pepper spray, bear spray delivers a potent chemical that inflames the bear’s eyes, nose, and mouth, often causing it to retreat. But timing is key – spray only when the bear is close enough for it to be effective, then take the opportunity to escape while it’s disoriented. Signal flares can also be useful, as the bright light and heat may frighten the bear. Throw them down on the ground to make yourself look larger and more intimidating.
Standing Your Ground

In the face of a charging polar bear, running is your worst option. Instead, stand your ground. A polar bear might decide that you’re not worth the trouble if you appear confident and unafraid. If you run, you’re confirming yourself as prey. Holding steady, maintaining eye contact, and trying to appear larger could make the bear second-guess its attack.
Last Resort: Fight Back

If a polar bear attacks and you’re out of options, your last move is to fight back – specifically targeting sensitive areas like its nose and eyes. Punch, kick, or use any tool available to strike at these spots. The bear may decide the encounter isn’t worth the injury. It’s a long shot, but if the bear feels threatened or hurt, it may retreat.
When You’re Unarmed

If you’re unarmed and unprepared, your odds drop significantly. However, standing firm and trying to appear dominant is still your best shot. Unlike grizzly or black bears, polar bears don’t typically bluff charge. If it looks like it’s going to attack, it probably will. Show as much confidence as possible, stay steady, and pray the bear decides not to attack.
The Odds Are Against You

Let’s be clear: a polar bear attack is one of the most dangerous scenarios in the wild. These bears are faster, stronger, and more adapted to the cold than you. Even if you have every possible piece of defense equipment, the odds are not in your favor. Fighting off a bear of this size and strength is nearly impossible, but with the right preparation and knowledge, you might just stand a chance.
Best Advice: Avoid Polar Bear Territory

The most effective way to survive a polar bear attack? Don’t put yourself in a position to need to survive one. Avoid their natural habitats unless absolutely necessary, and if you must travel there, make sure you’re fully prepared. Knowing what to expect, carrying the right equipment, and understanding polar bear behavior can make all the difference.
Impossible to Win

Polar bears are magnificent yet dangerous creatures. They thrive in their Arctic environment, and humans are out of their element there. If you find yourself in a life-or-death situation with one of these apex predators, remember that preparation and calmness are your best defenses. But ultimately, staying clear of polar bear territory is the surest way to avoid an encounter that’s almost impossible to win.

Mark grew up in the heart of Texas, where tornadoes and extreme weather were a part of life. His early experiences sparked a fascination with emergency preparedness and homesteading. A father of three, Mark is dedicated to teaching families how to be self-sufficient, with a focus on food storage, DIY projects, and energy independence. His writing empowers everyday people to take small steps toward greater self-reliance without feeling overwhelmed.