There are around 70-100 shark attacks worldwide every year, resulting in an average of 10 deaths. Your chance of drowning is 3 times greater than being attacked by a shark. Even fatal attacks by dogs are around 11 times more probable than being killed in a shark attack. But the chance is still there; and knowing what to do when you get attacked can mean the difference between life and death. Here are some suggestions from the Florida Museum of Natural History to help avoid being attacked: Don't stray from other groups of swimmers since sharks are more likely to attack an individual that's not in a large group.
Sharks are most active during dawn and dusk; and they're harder to spot.
The reflected light from jewelry can look like the scales of fish and attract sharks.
Avoid underwater drop offs and the areas between sandbars -- sharks often hangout near these areas.
Don't enter the water if you're bleeding, sharks have a very acute sense of smell.
Swim wear that is bright or has lots of contrast is especially visible to sharks and should be avoided.
If you spot a shark when you're in the water, don't panic. Splashing and erratic behavior is typical of a fish in distress and will only draw the shark in. Swim smoothly towards the shore and stay close to a diving partner if you have one. If the shark is being aggressive, defend yourself with whatever equipment you have with you; but don't provoke the shark unless absolutely necessary.
Most shark attacks are "hit and run" where the shark releases its victim as soon as it realizes that it is not its target prey. If a shark holds on or keeps coming back, pound at the shark in any way possible. The most sensitive areas on a shark's head are the best places to attack. It's gill openings and eyes are two sensitive spots. When the shark lets go, try to get out of the water as fast as possible to avoid further attacks.
Jon Hartford is the webmaster of Spring break.uni.cc. You can view the original article at http://www.springbreak.uni.cc/springbreaksharkattacks.php
