Shark Attacks
Reducing the Risks
Shark attacks are rare, but they are most likely to occur under the conditions described here. Most attacks occur near shore, typically inshore of a sandbar or between sandbars, where sharks can become trapped by low tide, and near steep drop-offs where sharks’ prey congregate.
Types of Unprovoked Attacks
According to the International Shark Attack File, of the 105 human-shark interactions reported in the United States in 2005, fifty-eight of them were determined to have been unprovoked. Unprovoked attacks happen in the following situations.
- Hit and run. These are by far the most common, usually occurring in shallow waters or surf zone. They are probably cases of mistaken identity in which the shark mistakes the human for prey. Injuries are usually small lacerations, often on the leg below the knee, and are seldom life-threatening.
- Bump and bite. These attacks are less common, usually occurring in deeper waters involving swimmers or divers. The shark circles and often bumps prior to the attack. Injuries are usually severe and sometimes fatal.
- Sneak. Sneak attacks are also less common, usually happening in deeper waters involving swimmers or divers. The shark attacks without warning; injuries are usually severe and often fatal.
How to Avoid Sharks
The relative risk of a shark attack is very small, but risks should always be minimized whenever possible in any activity. The chances of having an interaction with a shark can be reduced if one heeds the following advice:
- Always stay in groups as sharks are more likely to attack a solitary individual.
- Do not wander too far from shore. This isolates an individual and places him or her far from assistance.
- Avoid being in the water during darkness or twilight hours when sharks are most active and have a competitive sensory advantage.
- Do not enter the water if bleeding from an open wound or if menstruating. A shark's olfactory ability is acute.
- Don't wear shiny jewelry. The reflected light resembles the sheen of fish scales.
- Avoid waters with known effluents or sewage and those being used by sport or commercial fisherman, especially if there are signs of bait fishes or feeding activity. Diving seabirds are good indicators of such action.
- Don't assume that the presence of porpoises means there are no sharks around. Both animals often eat the same food items.
- Use extra caution when waters are murky, and avoid uneven tanning and bright colored clothing--sharks see contrast particularly well.
- Refrain from excess splashing and do not allow pets in the water because of their erratic movements.
- Exercise caution when occupying the area between sandbars or near steep drop offs--these are favorite hangouts for sharks.
- Do not enter the water if sharks are known to be present and evacuate the water if sharks are seen while there. And, of course, do not harass a shark if you see one!
Compiled from:
How, When & Where Sharks Attack by George H. Burgess. Published by: Florida Museum of Natural History, University of Florida.
Reducing the Risk of a Shark Encounter: Advice to Aquatic Recreationists by George H. Burgess. Published by: Florida Museum of Natural History, University of Florida.
