Shark Week: 7 Tips to Help Avoid a Shark Attack

While the only sure way to avoid a shark attack is to stay out of the water, here are a few more things you can do as a beachgoer to tip the scales in your favor.

1. Do not go in the water at dawn or dusk as everything is in the shark’s favor. Shark attacks rarely occur in the middle of the day.
2. Avoid large groups of seals or sea lions. And if you see these creatures on the beach or near the shoreline, beware.
3. If you are bleeding, including menstruating, stay out of the water.
4. Stay clear of fishing boats.
5. The murkier the water, the easier it is for a shark to sense you without you seeing the shark. Shark attacks are more likely to occur in murky conditions than when the water is clear.
6. If a shark is seen, leave the water quickly and calmly while avoiding excessive splashing or arm and leg movement.
7. Stay in a group as most sharks attack individuals.

Remember you are 1,000 times more likely to drown in the sea than to be bitten by a shark. The reality is that shark attacks are extremely rare but by exercising sound judgment, you can reduce those chances even further.

Check back tomorrow for continued Patch coverage of Shark Week 2012.