4 Easy Things You Can Do To Avoid A Shark Attack!
Shark Attacks in Massachusetts: How Common Are They and What to Watch Out For
Attention beachgoers. Ever worry about sharks lurking in the waters off Massachusetts?
(Um, it keeps me up at night. Truly. I blame “Jaws”.)
Anyway, you’re not alone. But don’t let that fear keep you from enjoying the ocean.
Shark experts assure us these ocean predators are unlikely to bite. Still, it’s worth being informed and staying safe.
Let’s start with some numbers. Last year, the U.S. saw 36 shark attacks, more than half of the 69 reported worldwide. In Massachusetts, shark attacks are rare. Of the 1,595 shark attacks since 1837 in U.S. waters, six were in Massachusetts, according to the International Shark Attack File. In 2018 there were two attacks, one fatal.
Shark attacks can sound terrifying, but let’s put things in perspective.
Your chances of being attacked by a shark are about 1 in 3.7 million. Compare that to the odds of dying in a fall, which are 1 in 128. Even coconuts are deadlier, killing about 150 people annually. On the bright side, if a shark does bite, the survival rate is around 90%. Sharks often realize we’re not their usual meal and swim away.
Cape Cod is a hotspot for great white sharks, thanks to the abundance of seals. These agile creatures are a white shark’s favorite snack. So, if you’re a surfer, you might look a bit like a seal splashing around on the surface. No need to panic, just be shark smart.
Here are some tips to stay safe:
- Stay close to shore: It’s easier for lifeguards to help if needed.
- Avoid swimming at dawn and dusk: Sharks tend to hunt during these times.
- Skip the splash: Excessive splashing can attract sharks.
- Steer clear of seals and schools of fish: Where there’s prey, there might be sharks.
If you see a shark, don’t freak out.
Maintain eye contact, slowly back away, and get out of the water if you can. If a shark does bite, aim for its eyes, gills, or snout. These areas are super sensitive.
Download the Sharktivity app to stay updated on shark sightings. It’s like checking the weather before heading to the beach – simple and smart.
Remember, shark attacks are incredibly rare. Most sharks aren’t interested in humans; they’re just cruising their natural habitat. So, be aware, be prepared, and enjoy the waves.