Shark Attack
When a shark has attacked a diver, the shark has most likely mistaken the diver as prey or has been unexpectedly startled by a diver.
There are two types of attacks that usually involve divers in deeper waters; “bump and bite” attacks and “sneak” attacks. These types of attacks are less common than surface attacks, but result in greater injuries and the most fatalities. “Bump and bite” attacks are characterized by the shark initially circling and often bumping the victim prior to the actual attack. “Sneak” attacks are characterized by the strike occurring without warning. Repeat attempts to bite are not uncommon and multiple or sustained bites are normal for these types of attacks making these injuries usually quite severe, frequently resulting in death. Rather than being a case of mistaken identity, these attacks most likely occur as a result of feeding or antagonistic behavior.
If you are a diver, here are a few tips to help you avoid shark attacks during your dive:
Swim in a group. Sharks are less likely to attack a group of divers and are more likely to attack a lone diver.Keep in mind you should at the very least, have a dive buddy with you during all dives.
Avoid the water at night, dawn, or dusk. Sharks hunt at night. If you love night diving, dive with a group and make sure you have a dive lamp.
Do not go in the water if you are bleeding. If you start to bleed while scuba diving, attempt to stop the flow of blood as soon as possible. Sharks have an incredibly sensitive olfactory system and can smell and taste blood and other bodily fluids and trace the scent back to its source. Menstrual blood may also attract sharks, but there is no indication of increased attacks on menstruating women.
Do not wear shiny jewelry. Shiny jewelry may look like small fish to a shark.
If you see a shark during a scuba dive, stay calm, stay quiet, and stay where you are. Most sharks are merely curious and will leave on their own. If a shark begins to get too interested in you and is moving closer and closer, it is safest to leave the water. Swim quickly and smoothly, watching the shark the entire time and keeping your dive buddy within an arm’s reach.
Jeff Anderson has studied on shark attacks and how to avoid shark attacks. He also works for website promotion and affordable web hosting.