BudgetTravel

You're more likely to get struck by lightning than mauled by a bear. But if you actually run into a grizzly, statistics are cold comfort. To be safe outdoors, follow some basic rules: Don't feed wild animals, stay in designated areas, and use the buddy system.

As for whether you should run, play dead, or hold your ground, it all depends on who's staring you down.

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MOUNTAIN LION

Avoidance: Mountain lions tend to attack smaller, isolated animals, so have kids and short adults stay close to taller people in the group (and consider leaving the dog at home). Mountain lions are most active from dawn to dusk, though attacks can happen anytime.

First Sight: Make eye contact, stand up straight, and raise your hands to present a formidable appearance. Pick up small children and retreat slowly, never turning your back.

Last Resort: Create loud noises and bare your teeth. Fight like hell when attacked. Do your best to keep the animal in front of you, as mountain lions deliver most fatal blows from behind, by clamping down on the neck.

SHARK

Avoidance: Be careful when swimming in areas with sudden depth changes, especially during early morning and twilight. Don't wear reflective outfits or jewelry, which attract sharks.

First Sight: Swim or steer your boat away at an even pace. Try not to make sudden movements or splash around, and always keep an eye on the shark.

Last Resort: Fight back with everything you've got. Jab at the shark's eyes and kick and throw punches at its gills to convince it to let you go.

BEAR

Avoidance: Most bears want to stay away from people, and talking, singing, or ringing a bell alerts them to your presence. Don't cook near your tent, and keep all food supplies, trash, and anything scented--even deodorant and sunscreen--locked in bear-resistant containers. Bears have been known to break car windows when they smell something good inside.