Marine Living

Even though you're more likely to die from a lightning strike, alligator attack or on a bicycle than from a shark attack, sharks do sometimes bite humans. According to the International Shark Attack File there were 59 cases of unprovoked shark attacks worldwide in 2008. Forty-one of these unprovoked attacks were in U.S. waters, and 32 of these were in Florida.

There are many ways (most of them common-sense) that you can avoid a shark attack. Below is a list of what not to do if you'll be swimming in waters where sharks might be present, and techniques for getting away alive if a shark attack really does happen.

Don't swim alone.Don't swim during dark or twilight hours.Don't swim with shiny jewelry.Don't swim if you have an open wound.Don't swim too far offshore.Ladies: don't swim if you're menstuating.Don't splash excessively or make erratic movements.Keep pets out of the water.Don't swim in areas where there are sewage (for other obvious reasons!) or pinnipeds that are hauled-out. Both areas can attract sharks.Don't swim in areas being used by fishermen, as their bait could attract sharks.Don't push your luck - never harass a shark. Get out of the water if one is spotted.

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