It's Shark Week … As if you needed another reminder that it's dangerous to swim near sharks, it's Shark Week again on the Discovery Channel. There's still plenty of summer left and if you're planning to spend some time at the beach and in the ocean, you may want to pay attention to these tips on how to avoid an unfortunate shark encounter:
- Swim, surf, or paddle in groups because sharks are more likely to target a solo person.
- Stay close to the shore.
- Avoid being in the water at dusk or dawn.
- Sharks are attracted to contrast, so don't wear anything bright or any jewelry that sparkles.
- Don't swim near a fishing area because sharks may be attracted to the bait.
- Avoid sandbars because sharks tend to congregate there.
- Don't swim near seals.
- Avoid erratic movements like splashing.
And if a shark attacks, here's what you should do:
- Hit the shark in the eyes, snout, or gills.
- Get out of the water as soon as possible because the shark may attack again.
- When swimming away from the shark, keep your movements as calm and smooth as possible.