How to Defend Yourself From a Shark Attack

According to the International Shark Attack File, the chances of actually being attacked by a shark are 1 in 11.5 million. Of the several hundred different species of shark, only a small percentage has ever been positively associated with unprovoked attacks on humans. Sharks rarely attack humans, but when they do it is usually because they mistake the human for prey. Although very rare, shark attacks do occur and it is very important (especially if you spend much time in the water) to know how to defend yourself if and when a shark does attack.

Instructions

How to Defend Yourself From a Shark Attack

• 1

  If a shark attacks, aggressively defend yourself with whatever hard or sharp items are available to you. If you are a diver, it is wise to have a dive knife strapped to your calf at all times. If you do not have a weapon or sharp object, use whatever you can get a hold of, for instance a rock.

• 2

  When striking the shark, try to aim for the eyes, gills or snout, as these are the shark’s most sensitive places. The snout is covered with Ampullae of Lorenzini: a sensory organ that allows the shark to detect electromagnetic fields in the water. Pounding the snout will likely cause the shark to become disoriented, which will hopefully give you enough time to escape.

• 3

  If possible, avoid striking the shark with your bare hands or feet. Sharks have sharp denticles on their shin that makes it very abrasive.

• 4

  If possible, back up against a hard surface like a rock formation. This will make it easier for you keep track of the shark’s whereabouts. It will also make it easier for you to defend yourself since you will only have to worry about the shark attacking from one side.

• 5

  Sharks have difficulty biting when the victim is in a vertical position (their thick snouts get in the way). Try to avoid letting yourself drift into a horizontal position; this will make it easier for the shark to bite you.

• 6

  If the shark bites and you are trapped in its mouth, strike its snout and eyes as aggressively as possible. Do not give up or play dead as this will not help you at all. The more you fight, the better the chances are that you will survive.

• 7

  If you are bit, try to stop the bleeding by tying something tightly over the wound. Exit the water as quickly and calmly as possible.

• 8

  Seek immediate medical attention no matter how minimal your injuries may seem. Better safe than sorry.