The Wyoming Game and Fish Department will give away 100 cans of bear spray on Tuesday, Sept. 22 at the rodeo grounds in Cody.

The cans will be freely distributed on a first-come, first-served basis to hunters or anglers with a current Wyoming hunting or fishing license.

The bear spray was purchased with monetary donations from Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Western Bear Foundation and Wyoming Outdoorsmen. It’s the fifth year Game and Fish has partnered with organizations to give away bear spray to hunters and anglers in Cody.

“Bear spray is an effective deterrent in an aggressive bear encounter and we hope this effort continues to raise awareness and remind those recreating in bear country to be prepared and stay safe,” said Dusty Lasseter, bear wise coordinator for Game and Fish.

The giveaway will begin at 8 a.m. in the front parking lot of the Cody Stampede Grounds (519 W. Yellowstone Ave.) in Cody. To receive a can of bear spray, hunters must show a current Wyoming hunting or fishing license. As a precautionary measure to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, those seeking bear spray will be asked to form several lines while staying in their vehicles. Participants will then drive up to a designated area where a volunteer will distribute the bear spray to individuals in their vehicles. Game and Fish personnel will be on hand to direct people and maintain safety standards.

“This is a great opportunity for Game and Fish to promote bear safety as many hunters prepare for the fall season,” Lasseter said.