Tips to help avoid a shark attack
Experts say there are a number of ways to reduce your risk of a "hit-and-run" shark attack at the shore.
Amid reports of suspected shark bites off Long Island, researchers say people need to be alert when they get into the water.
With an increase in extreme heat across the globe, more and more people are flocking to the coast to cool off. But as the population surges and as ocean temperatures gradually rise, shark attacks continue to climb each year.
George H. Burgess, director emeritus of the Florida Museum of Natural History's International Shark Attack File (ISAF), said there are a number of ways to reduce the risk of an encounter.
Most shark attacks are not lethal and can be classified as shark bites.
“These are hit-and-run attacks,” Burgess said, adding that sharks often mistake a person for prey, take a quick bite, realize their mistake and let go of the victim leaving injuries that may be no more serious than a dog bite.
Even though most attacks do not result in fatalities, several people still die because of shark attacks each year. Here are some tips on avoiding a shark attack:
Avoid swimming and surfing during morning, after sunset
Lifeguards watch as beach-goers enjoy the surf at Smith Point County Park, a Long Island beach where a shark bit a lifeguard, in Shirley, New York, in this July 2022 file photo. (AP Photo/John Minchillo)
Swimming or surfing should be avoided during darkness or twilight hours when sharks are most active, according to the ISAF.
"Many sharks are most active at these times and are better able to find you than you are to see them," the ISAF reports.
Also, sharks are attracted to erratic movements and splashing. Do not allow pets in the water: their erratic movements may draw a shark’s attention.
Leave the jewelry at home
Wearing shiny jewelry is discouraged because the reflected light resembles the sheen of fish scales. Rings, necklaces, gold chains and other reflective, metallic jewelry may confuse a shark into thinking they've spotted a food source.
"Leave the jewelry at home," Burgess said. "The light reflecting off it makes it look like the light off of fish scales."
According to Burgess, most of the "hit-and-run attacks" occur as a result of the shark mistaking a person for prey. Most commonly surfers experience this type of attack because of their splashing and paddling movements that are similar to the movements of fish.
Avoid brightly colored or patterned clothing
Another risk that can increase the chances of getting attacked may be the designs or colors of a bathing suit.
Sharks have excellent vision for hunting their aquatic prey and will be able to see brightly colored clothing even in cloudy waters.
"Sharks see contrast particularly well," Burgess said. "I'd advise against wearing bright colors."
Do not enter waters being fished
Sharks, sea birds and anglers all hunt the same prey, so avoiding waters where fishermen are luring in a catch can help reduce the risk of a shark encounter.
In addition to avoiding waters that are being fished by anglers, ISAF reports that diving sea birds are also a good indicator of fish in the area.
Avoid entering waters with sewage output is also important because sewage can lure bait fish into an area.
Do not enter the water if you are bleeding
One of the most powerful senses the shark possesses is its sense of smell. Sharks are capable predators and can detect the blood of injured prey.
A good way to reduce the risk of attracting a shark is to stay away from the sea with open wounds or cuts that could attract them. Also, enter the water with caution if menstruating — a shark’s olfactory ability is acute.
Always stay in groups
A white shark swims across a sand bar off the Massachusetts coast of Cape Cod, Aug. 13, 2021. (AP Photo/Phil Marcelo, File)
When you do enter the waters, it's important to stay in a group of people if you can as most shark attacks occur when people are alone.
Stay close to shore
Wandering too far from the shoreline can also pose a risk as it "isolates you and places you away from assistance," the ISAF reports.
Sand bars and steep dropoffs are also favorite areas of sharks, according to the ISAF, which stressed using caution in those areas.
If a shark does attack, Burgess recommends fighting back and doing everything to get out of the water as quickly as possible.
“It's important to be proactive,” Burgess said, citing the need to fight back.
Punching or swatting the shark in sensitive areas like the nose may be an effective deterrent, but the tactic won't work forever, he added.
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