Summer is in the air, and you just can't help taking a soft dive into the ocean. But what's that fin over there? Is it a dolphin, or is it a shark? If you look carefully, the fin lumps over so that you know that it's a dolphin. What if it was a shark? How would you handle it? What would you do to prevent getting a terrifying bite from the sea demon? If you have those questions, you have come to the right article!
Sharks have always been made out to be the demons of the sea. They have been made out to be vicious, bloodthirsty man eaters. In reality, you are more likely to get struck by lightning than to get attacked by a shark! There have been many theories as to why sharks attack people. Well, what really go me on this subject was a show on "National Geographic Wild" called, "Shark Attack Experiment". In the show, a group of scientists got together to study and experiment how sharks react to certain movements and objects. I cannot find the full show, but I took notes as I watched it and later found some articles.
Splashing
Splashing, even playful splashing, can attract sharks. You could imitate the movements of a disoriented or injured prey (swimming patterns of a dog can even attract a shark).
What I recommend you use is a nice and steady stroke.
Swimming at Dusk or Dawn
Sharks feed actively at these times. Their visibility isn't as keen either, so you do not want to get mixed up in something that you didn't sign up for.
I suggest swimming in the daylight hours.
Open Cuts and Wounds
Since sharks possess very keen senses, the slightest amount of blood can attract a shark from miles away.
If you insist on swimming with an open wound, bandage it up very nicely.
Lustrous Clothing
Although the outfit may be cute, clothing that is high in contrast or brightly colored may confuse a shark. Even very contrasting tan lines could lead a shark to grab a bite. Bright jewelry can reflect the sun's light and draw the attention of a shark. In the picture below, you'll see a man in bright shorts, which would be a big no-no if he were to take a dip in the water.
I suggest a style change, if you will. Less bright clothing would be essential. You should probably take off that diamond ring, too.
Murky Water
This causes poor visibility for sharks. That could cause a mistaken identity for prey. Lustrous clothing can also play a role in murky water, as the shining could also give a shark the impression that you are prey.
I don't suggest swimming in any type of murky water.
Swim Buddies
It would be better if you are to swim in a group. A shark is more likely to attack an individual than a group of people.
If you aren't with a group, at least swim around one.
Fishermen
Avoid fishermen at all costs. They may have bait in the water. The blood or scent of the bait could draw in shark. What the fishermen catch on their hooks could also attract the attention of a shark.
Simply just avoid the fishermen. Besides, would you want to be on the other end of the hook?
Shallow Waters
Shallow water doesn't always mean safe water. You can tell how shallow the water is in the image below. Stay alert even in thigh-deep waters.
You must keep an eye out for any sea creatures that could be potentially dangerous.
Sandbars and Drop-offs
These types of places tend to be where sharks hang about.
Like I previously mentioned, keep an eye out for animals that could be potentially dangerous.
Do NOT Swim if You See a Shark
I don't think that this is a necessary section, but some people may not know. If you see a shark, notify those around you, but don't run out and scream, "SHARK IN THE WATER!!!" because that will frighten people and that may even add on to the shark's curiosity and lure it in.
Now that you know what to do when you take a dip at the beach, try telling your friends and family this information when you go to the beach (Unless you don't like them. Then I guess you can let them fend off on their own)! Try not to get eaten this summer!
HotTrent1, safely swimming away! *inserts swimming noise*
Author's Note: I hope that you all have a safe and happy summer!
http://dsc.discovery.com/tv-shows/shark-week/about-this-show/why-do-sharks-attack.htm
http://www.howstuffworks.com/shark-attack6.htm
http://saveourseas.com/articles/why_do_white_sharks_bite_people
http://greekimages.blogspot.com/2008/02/greece-crete-agios-pavlos-beach-at.html
http://www.jdafamily.com/Page_05_01_Photo_Gallery_Page_01.html
http://shop.nordstrom.com/c/mens-swimwear-neon
http://ookaboo.com/o/pictures/picture/13299505/A_blacktip_shark_swimming_in_murky_water
http://www.backpackingdiplomacy.com/summer-in-louisiana/deep-sea-fishing2/
http://www.rivalrobot.com/2010/06/23/five-lessons-from-movies-on-moving-house/
http://eofdreams.com/shark.html
