Encounters with sharks, while uncommon, can be a source of concern. Understanding how to react to a shark’s presence is beneficial for anyone spending time in the ocean. Remaining composed and informed about potential responses can contribute to a safer experience.
Assessing the Shark’s Behavior
Not every shark approach indicates an aggressive intent; some sharks may be curious or simply investigating their surroundings. Observing the shark’s body language can help differentiate between various behaviors. Signs of agitation or aggression include a hunched posture, an arched back, and depressed pectoral fins, which can signal a warning. Rapid, jerky movements or a sudden change in swimming patterns, such as figure-eight loops, also suggest the shark is not at ease. Mouth gaping, where a shark opens and closes its mouth, can indicate annoyance or a threat. Head or body shaking is another indicator that a shark is agitated. Recognizing these cues allows an individual to understand the shark’s disposition and prepare an appropriate response.
Strategic Deterrence
If a shark appears curious or is testing its environment, several non-physical actions can encourage it to move away. Maintaining eye contact with the shark is generally recommended, as sharks often prefer to ambush prey that is unaware of their presence. This continuous gaze can signal to the shark that you are aware of it, potentially deterring an approach.
Slowly backing away while keeping the shark in sight is also advised, as turning your back might trigger a predatory instinct. Making yourself appear larger can also serve as a deterrent, as it communicates that you are not a small, vulnerable prey item. Spreading your arms or extending any available objects can increase your perceived size.
Avoiding sudden, erratic movements or excessive splashing is important, as these actions can mimic distressed prey and attract a shark’s attention. Instead, aim for smooth, deliberate motions to maintain a calm demeanor.
Direct Defensive Measures
Should a shark become aggressive or make physical contact, direct defensive measures may be necessary as a last resort. The most sensitive areas on a shark to target are its eyes, gills, and the tip of its snout. A forceful blow to these areas can cause the shark to retreat. The snout, while sensitive, is also very tough, so targeting the eyes or gills may be more effective.
If you have any available objects, such as a camera, dive gear, or a surfboard, use them as a barrier or to strike the shark. This can help create distance and discourage further investigation. If no objects are available, use your hands, fists, elbows, knees, or feet to strike these vulnerable points. Continue fighting if the shark persists, delivering hard, sharp jabs to the eyes and gills until it disengages.
Exiting the Water Safely
Once the immediate threat has passed or the shark has disengaged, leaving the water calmly and efficiently is the next step. Continue to move smoothly and deliberately towards the nearest shore or boat, avoiding any splashing or rapid movements that could re-attract the shark’s attention. Keep the shark in your line of sight as you retreat, if possible. If a boat is nearby, call out calmly for assistance.
After exiting the water, seeking immediate medical attention is important, even if any contact was minor. If there is bleeding, apply pressure to the wound to help control blood loss. In cases of severe bleeding, apply direct pressure or even improvising a tourniquet if trained, can be life-saving. Keeping the injured person still and warm can also help manage shock.