A Wyoming court attorney is attempting to draft legislation that would require all backcountry users to carry bear spray in the state.

But while Parks Canada continues to encourage backcountry users to carry bear spray, it isn’t about to mandate it for all backcountry users.

The proposed legislation relates to an increasing number of bear attacks. While there have been 44 bear related deaths in the state over the past 100 years, many of them have taken place during the past 20 years. The bill has yet to find a sponsor, but is gaining support.

A 2006 report on Alaskan bear encounters, co-authoured by Stephen Herrero and Tom S. Smith, found that bear spray used on brown bears proved to be 98 per cent effective in avoiding contact encounters. Firearms, on the other hand, only proved successful in 66 per cent of reported incidents.

Steve Malcolm, Parks Canada protection/ operations coordinator said bear spray is an effective tool he encourages all backcountry users to carry, however there is no talk of mandating its usage.

Parks Canada spokesman Sean Nardella said there is also an onus on the public to take care of their own public safety while in the backcountry.

“We offer advice, but we don’t mandate people to carry it,” Nardella said. He compared bear spray to other camping equipment. One is not mandated to bring a tent and sleeping bag when camping in the park, but it makes the experience more comfortable.”

Wardens and resource conservation officers have been carrying bear spray for the past 10 years, but haven’t had to use it often.

“In the last six years, we’ve used it once or twice,” Malcolm said.

One of the keys to effective bear spray use, according to Malcolm, is readiness.

“A lot of people shove it in their packs, where they can’t access it readily. These scenarios take place in five to ten seconds,” he said.

Malcolm also said most bear activity has ceased in the park around Jasper, as many of the bears have entered their dens for the winter.