Bells as you know and loud sounds can scare off animals. That why hiking with a bell can be a grand strategy. It tells all the nearby wildlife just where you are so that they can stay away. If you're going to carry a bell, be sure it's one that includes a magnet. You use the magnet like a little on/off switch to stop the ringing. Otherwise, it's sure to drive you and your companions bonkers!
A good whistle around your neck is the next best thing. Before you go buying a whistle and blowing continuously as you jaunt down the trail, you should know one thing. The sound of a whistle signals others that you're in danger. Don't use it unless you need to. Hikers have been known to go miles out of their way to check up on a whistle blow. If you use yours haphazardly, don't be surprised if some otherwise friendly hikers show up to give you an earful. If you decide to carry a whistle, it'll play dual roles. It can scare off predators or signal for help. And for less than $10, that's one piece of equipment you can't beat...
