Great White Sharks in South Africa
Ryan Pierse, Getty Images
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It is that time again the sun on your skin, warm weather, school is out, and the beach is your only priority.  Yes, it is time for summer and with summer coming it is important to keep in mind some helpful safety tips.  According to National Geographic, “United States averages just 16 shark attacks each year and slightly less than one shark-attack fatality every two years,” basically you have a better chance of getting struck by lightning. However, it is still beneficial to know what to do in case you or someone you love is faced with this situation.

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    Keep your eyes on the Shark and don't move:

    Sharks have numerous attack methods (Hit-and-run attack, Sneak attack, and finally Bump-and-bite attack) and any can be used when attempting to strike a victim.  Move slowly away from the sharks and towards safety, do not bolt or swim quickly to the shore. Although it might seem tempting it is better to move slowly and try and out smart the shark without provoking it to fully attack.

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    Reduce Sharks Angles

    If a shark starts circling you that means it is planning to strike and if it is in a “zig-zag motion” it is trying to find the best angle. At this point it is a good idea to try and back up against something to reduce the shark’s angle. If you are close to shore try backing up towards the shore, if you're in the ocean try and find a reef or coral to press against. If a boat is nearby in the ocean try and go towards it, however do not try and go around the shark…stay clear of its reach and mouth.  Most importantly remain calm and do not make any sudden movements or swim in the direction of the shark.

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    Fight If All Fails

    Although it might might seem scary, fighting off a shark is possible and can potentially save an individual’s life. The key points to hit are a shark’s gills, nose, and its eyes.  When those ares are hit the shark will react (feel pain) and potentially swim away. However, even if it does swim away do not think that you’re safe, sharks have a tendency to turn back for their victim. Once the shark disappears make sure to swim to the shore or nearest safety point and get out of the water. Once out of the water then and only then is an individual actually safe.

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