Rest assured, the odds of having to fight a shark one day remain minimal. On the other hand, it sometimes happens that an unfortunate encounter can cause significant damage. Such was the case with Addison Bethea, a young teenager who was attacked by a shark in the waters of Keaton Beach, Florida. To find out how to thwart these attacks, an article published by CNN gives us top expert advice.
First of all, everything must be done to avoid a confrontation. In 2021, the United States won the shark accident award with forty-seven recorded attacks, including twenty-eight in Florida. Hence this suggestion: never bathe in this country. In general, you have to know the environment you want to immerse yourself in. The ocean is home to sharks; we are his visitors.
Then the sharks have their favorite place: avoid the mouths of rivers and estuaries. Their murky waters are popular with bull sharks, which can attack humans. “A very large number of attacks occur at the mouths of rivers where there is mud,” says Richard Peirce, a shark expert. Likewise, deep channels between the shore and more distant sandbanks should be avoided. And if you see a fishing boat, run away! Fishing and its side effects attract the attention of these marine mammals.
After avoiding these risk areas, swim at appropriate times. We forget the midnight baths. After a certain hour, the shark will see you blurred.
Also, many attacks are the result of an identity mistake (to him, you’re a sea lion). Watch the fish behavior before entering the water. For example, if a group of small or medium-sized fish suddenly jump into the water, beware: the presence of a shark is very likely. Despite these tips, there are also survival techniques if you can’t dodge the shark.
It’s best to stay cool
First tip: don’t panic. The shark will stare at you and circle you, but most importantly, “Don’t start splashing around, you’ll only attract, provoke and encourage the shark’s interest,” says Neil Hammerschlag, director of the Research Program and Conservation Program at the Rosenstiel School University of Miami. Sure, picket until he leaves. Otherwise, hitting him on the gills may be enough. These are very delicate, a hit in and the beast will take time to recover. To do this, turn your snorkel or underwater camera into a weapon and strike.
As a diver, keep your eyes on your opponent. Don’t let the shark get behind you. Then leave him alone. Move as little water as possible. Try not to fidget or splash, and slowly swim backwards to shore.
As you venture out of the ocean depths, remember that a great white shark may attack in shallower water. However, experts say the chances of surviving these attacks unscathed are slim. “When a great white shark is in full attack mode, there’s not much you can do at that point.”