Random Article
Tips for Surviving a Shark Attack, 8-15
Shark attacks may not happen all that often, but if you're going to an area where you may encounter one, why not be prepared? The tips below should help.8. Keep Fido on the Beach
Allowing dogs to swim in the ocean can be dangerous if you're in shark territory. Animals swim erratically, attracting the attention of sharks. Don't let pets stay in the water for long periods of time.
9. See a Shark? Shout!
If there's a dorsal fin on the horizon, letting people know is a good idea. The more people know what's going on, the better off you are if the situation worsens. Then quickly swim toward shore as if your life depends on it . . . because it just might.
10. Shark Approaching: Stay Silent and Immobile
If you aren't able to get to shore and a shark approaches you, try to stay still and be quiet to avoid an attack.
11. Shark Zigzagging: Find Something Solid
The zigzagging shark is looking for angles, so if you can back up against a reef, a piling, or some other kind of outcropping, do so. This reduces the number of angles the shark has to come at you. If you're in open water, get back-to-back with your swimming buddy. You do have a swimming buddy, right?
12. Shark Circling: Uh-Oh
This is not good. If a shark is circling you, that means it's about to strike. Time to fight back!
13. Shark Attacking: The Eyes Have It
It might sound ridiculous, but try to stay calm. If you're being attacked by a shark, go for the eyes and gills, the most vulnerable parts of the shark. If you can wound the eyes, you've got a chance.
14. Go for the Nose (Or Not . . .)
Although opinions differ, the general consensus seems to be that if you can get a clear shot, hitting the shark on the nose can be highly effective at ending the attack. Trouble is, when you're being attacked, hitting a specific target becomes challenging at best.
15. What Not to Do
Don't play dead. This does nothing but make the shark think it has won. The shark will then commence chomping. Clearly, this is not what you want it to do. Also, if you've been attacked, get away as fast as you possibly can. Sharks smell blood. You didn't fare too well with the first one and there are probably more on the way.
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:
Helen Davies, Marjorie Dorfman, Mary Fons, Deborah Hawkins, Martin Hintz, Linnea Lundgren, David Priess, Julia Clark Robinson, Paul Seaburn, Heidi Stevens, and Steve Theunissen
