SHARK ENCOUNTERS: A SURVIVAL GUIDE

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SHARK ENCOUNTERS:  A SURVIVAL GUIDE





Swimming in the ocean carries a slight chance of running into a shark, but you can make that risk even smaller—and boost your odds of getting out safely if you ever do see one. Most shark attacks happen close to shore, and they’re almost always unprovoked. People swimming alone, far from the beach, or in areas where sharks are known to feed or travel are more at risk. The same goes for anyone swimming at dawn or dusk, when sharks are more active, or those with open wounds—sharks can smell blood from a surprisingly long distance (apps.dtic.mil).

To stack the odds in your favor, stay close to shore—less than 82 feet is a good rule. Skip swimming at dawn, dusk, or night, since those are prime shark feeding times. Leave the shiny jewelry and neon swimsuits at home; flashy colors and glinting metal can look like fish scales to a shark. Steer clear of areas where people are fishing, as bait and fish scraps can attract sharks. And if you’re bleeding, get out of the water.

Traveling in groups helps, too. Sharks are more likely to approach someone alone (PMC). And while you might see products claiming to repel sharks, studies show most chemical and electronic repellents don’t work all that well for swimmers (Taylor & Francis).

If you see a shark, the most important thing is to stay calm. Try not to splash or panic. Face the shark and keep eye contact as you slowly and steadily back toward shore. Fast, frantic movements can trigger a chase. If you have to fight back, go for the eyes, gills, or snout—those are the most sensitive spots. People have fought off sharks with surfboards, spear guns, or even bare hands before (Marine and Freshwater Research).

If you’re bitten, stopping the bleeding is critical. Use direct pressure or apply a tourniquet and seek help as soon as possible. Most shark bites are survivable if you get first aid fast (Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery; Injury).

The actual odds of a shark attack are tiny—driving to the beach is more dangerous than swimming in the ocean (Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery). Still, following a few basic rules can make you even safer and help you keep your cool if you ever see a fin. Always swim with friends, stay alert, and remember: sharks aren’t hunting humans. They’re just doing their thing in the ocean.

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