How to Protect Yourself Against a Shark Attack

There are around 100 shark attacks recorded around the world each year. It might surprise you to learn the U.S.A. ranks first in the number of shark attacks occuring each year with the number one state for attacks being Florida.

Why does the U.S. have such a high incidence of shark attacks? The experts believe this is because of the great degree of recreational activity that occurs on America's beaches. If you're planning a beach trip to potentially
shark infested waters, I'd like to give you some hints on how to avoid being a shark attack victim.

First it should be remembered that sharks can be unpredictable creatures, but they aren't prone to attacking people under normal conditions. That should cause you to breathe a big sign of relief! Plus, a human attack usually occurs when the shark mistakenly confuses a human for a large fish or seal and attacks them for food.

Just to be safe, here are those tips to avoid being a shark attack victim:

1. Stay out of the water after the sun goes down or early in the morning to avoid encountering a shark hunting for food.

2. Avoid sandbars or channels as this is where sharks may hang out.

3. Avoid dense, murky waters where you can't see what's swimming around you.

4. If you've been fishing, don't carry dead fish into the water.You don't want to whet the shark's appetite, do you?

5. Don't go into the water alone.

6. Avoid deep waters, especially sandbars where there are steep drop offs in depth.

What if you're in the water and you happen to see a shark?

1. Don't make any violent splashy movements as this may cause the shark to mistake you for a seal. Remain calm.

2. Your primary objective is to get out of the water. If you're close to shore, swim smoothly and slowly back to shore with a minimal of splashing and water movement. If a boat is nearby, signal for a boat and wait calmly with your eye on the shark for the boat to approach and rescue you.

3. If you're with another person, move closer to them so the shark will perceive you as a larger target. The shark may get intimidated and move away from you.

What if you're attacked by a shark?

1. This is the time to show the shark you're a force to be reckoned with. You should aggressively hit the shark, preferably in the face and eyes which may cause him to retreat.

2. If people are nearby, shout and raise your arm in an attempt to get help.

3. If you have pole or other object nearby you can use as a weapon, beat the shark with all your force with the object.


4. Try to remain vertical as much as possible as this makes it more difficult for the shark to bite.

5. Get out of the water as soon as possible after the shark is subdued or moves away. Always swim in a smooth, controlled manner.

6. Get medical help immediately.

Now that you know how to avoid being a shark attack victim and how to handle an attack should it occur, you'll be prepared to handle a shark related emergency should it arise.

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