US School Principal Encounters A Bear But Thankfully Escapes Unscathed

Bears can be extremely scary for human beings due to their large size, strength, and potentially aggressive behaviour. When a bear feels threatened or is protecting its cubs or territory, it may attack humans.

Their sharp claws, powerful jaws, and ability to run at high speeds make them a formidable opponent. Bears are also very unpredictable and may attack without warning or provocation, as per experts.

Encountering a bear in the wild can be an intimidating and frightening experience, especially for those who are not familiar with bear behaviour or how to respond appropriately.

It is important for people to take precautions when in bear country and to be knowledgeable about how to avoid bear encounters or handle them if necessary. But it was not a good day for a US school principal when he encountered a bear. The video of the incident was caught on the parking cam. Watch the video here.

Principal Of US Elementary School Meets A Bear In Unexpected Encounter

The bear was encountered by the principal of Zela Elementary School in West Virginia. On Monday morning, Principal James Marsh ran into an unexpected guest while removing a lock from a dumpster outside the school.

The Nicholas County Board of Education shared CCTV footage of the incident on Facebook. Watch the viral video here.

In the clip, Mr Marsh attempts to open the bar lock that prevents bears from entering to consume food scraps. The bear is soon seen scurrying out of the trash bin as Mr Marsh sprints away from it. Thankfully, the bear took off in the other direction.

The caption of the video reads, "Who says principals don't deserve hazard pay?"

According to Marsh, the bear must have squeezed through the dumpster latch to enter the container before realising it was trapped as the lid closed behind it.

Several hilarious comments have been left on the video on social media.

A lady wrote, "Just showing up for Principal Appreciation Day!"

Another added, "I have watched this over and over¡­..and have ??? the look ¡­this is priceless."

Facebook Screengrab

Here's what to do if you encounter a bear, and no you are not supposed to run

If you see a bear, it is important to remain calm and avoid panicking. Stay at a safe distance and do not approach the bear. This can provoke the bear and increase the chances of an attack.

If the bear has not seen you yet, slowly and quietly back away from the area. Do not turn your back on the bear, and do not run. Or if the bear has seen you, make noise by talking loudly, clapping your hands, or banging pots and pans together to make yourself appear larger and more intimidating.

If you were thinking of running, don't. Running may trigger the bear's predatory instincts and cause it to chase you. It is important to remain still or back away slowly. If you have one, you can also use a bear spray. If the bear continues to approach you, use bear spray if you have it. Bear spray is a type of pepper spray designed specifically for use on bears.

And there is a good old trick - if a bear attacks you, curl up in a ball with your hands over your neck and head. Play dead and do not fight back. The bear may lose interest and leave you alone.

Remember, it is important to be prepared and knowledgeable about bear behaviour when hiking or camping in bear country. Avoid hiking alone, make noise to alert bears of your presence, and carry bear spray as a precautionary measure.

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