The chances of getting attacked by a shark this summer are pretty slim, but it does happen. Last year, there were just 155 attacks worldwide. So CNN put together a list of things you should know in case you find yourself face-to-snout with a shark in the water.
Act Big: Sharks will turn and bolt if they think you are bigger and more aggressive.
Pop it on the nose: Shark expert George Burgess, director of the International Shark Attack File, told CNN that a “smack to the nose is startling to a shark.”
Don’t Play Dead: Deaths from shark attacks are rare (five worldwide in 2017). If you do find yourself in the jaws of a shark, don’t play dead. The shark will think it won the battle and will keep biting down.
Fight, Fight, Fight: Deal with a shark like a “neighborhood bully.” If you have something in your hand, selfie stick or scuba gear, smack the shark with it. If you’ve just got your hands, go for the nose, gills and eyes.
Get Help: Thrashing and blood will attract other sharks, so get to shore. Once on land, you can stop the bleeding and get help.
Don’t Swim At Night: You can’t see the sharks coming. Avoid mouths of rivers, inlets, channels and any place where fish congregate. “Where there’s fish, there’s predators,” Burgess says.
No Jewelry: Flashy, shiny things draw sharks because they think they are fish scales.
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