9 Expert-Backed Tips for Surviving a Shark Encounter

So you’re out floating in the middle of the ocean, on a surfboard enjoying the waves, when suddenly out of nowhere you feel a bump from below. 

Your heart races as you realize it’s not just a curious fish but a shark circling beneath you! It sounds like something out of a movie (Jaws, anyone?), but that’s exactly what happened to a 14-year-old boy who was bitten in the leg by a shark at a North Carolina beach in late June 2024.1 

So, what should you do if you find yourself face-to-face with a shark? Here are 9 tips on how to survive a shark attack and make it back to shore in one piece.

1. Don’t Panic & Stay Calm

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Easier said than done, right? But staying calm is crucial when a shark is nearby. Sharks can sense fear and erratic movements, which may trigger their predatory instincts. Keep your eyes on the shark and slowly make your way back to shore or the boat. 

Remember, most sharks don’t actively seek out humans as prey, so remaining calm and collected can help you avoid becoming a target.

2. Fight Back with Everything You’ve Got

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If a shark does attack, don’t play dead. Instead, give it everything you’ve got. 

Punch, kick, and poke at sensitive spots like the eyes, nose, and gills. These areas are particularly vulnerable, and a well-placed hit can deter the shark and give you a chance to escape. If you have a weapon, like a surfboard or diving knife, use it to fend off the shark.

3. Aim for the Gills, Not the Nose

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While punching a shark in the nose is often touted as a defense tactic, it’s actually better to aim for the gills. “The gills are very sensitive – giving a shark a whack in the gills isn’t a bad idea,” says shark expert Richard Peirce (ref).

The gills are located just behind the mouth near the pectoral fins, so if you’re fighting back, try to target this area for maximum impact.

4. Use Any Object as a Weapon

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If you’re carrying anything with you in the water, turn it into a weapon. “If you’re a diver with an underwater camera, use it, if you’re a snorkeler, rip off your snorkel and use it to poke the shark,” advises Peirce.

Even a small metal rod between 2-3 feet long can be enough to nudge a shark away if it gets too close. Improvise with what you have to defend yourself.

5. Swim with a Buddy

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There’s safety in numbers, especially when it comes to shark attacks. Swimming with a friend not only decreases the chances of an attack, but it also means you have someone to assist you if you are bitten.

Your buddy can help pull you to safety and call for help, which can be life-saving in an emergency situation.

6. Apply Pressure to the Wound

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If you have been bitten, the first priority is to slow the bleeding. Apply direct pressure to the wound as soon as possible, as you can bleed out quickly in the water.

The blood can also attract more sharks, so it’s crucial to control the bleeding and get out of the water as soon as you can. 

If you’re alone, try to remain calm and swim on your back to shore while maintaining pressure on the bite.

7. Avoid Murky Waters & Steep Drop-offs

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Sharks often frequent murky waters, harbor entrances, river mouths, and areas with steep drop-offs. These locations can be prime hunting grounds for sharks, so it’s best to steer clear if possible. 

Stick to well-established swimming areas that are protected by shark nets or monitored by lifeguards and helicopters. The shallows near the beach are generally safer than deeper waters further out.

8. Don’t Wear Shiny Jewelry or High-Contrast Clothing

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Sharks have excellent vision and are attracted to contrast and shiny objects. Avoid wearing high-contrast clothing or flashy jewelry that could catch a shark’s eye.

Stick to muted colors that blend in with the water and remove any reflective accessories before diving in. 

The less you stand out, the less likely you are to draw unwanted attention from curious sharks.

9. Know When Sharks are Most Active

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Sharks tend to be more active during certain times of the day, particularly at dawn, dusk, and night. If possible, avoid swimming during these peak hours when some species of sharks may move inshore to feed. 

However, it’s important to note that sharks like tiger sharks can bite at any time, so always remain vigilant and follow safety guidelines regardless of the time of day.

While the chances of a shark attack are incredibly slim, it’s still important to know what to do in the unlikely event that you encounter one.

Source
1. CNN

Martha A. Lavallie
Martha A. Lavallie
Author & Editor | + posts

Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.