Coming across a shark can be frightening, and your first instinct is usually to panic. But staying calm and acting sensibly is what keeps you safe. Here is what we tell divers to do if they meet a shark in the water.
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Stay calm: Panicking only makes things worse. Keep your head so you can think clearly and react the right way.
No sudden movements: Sharks notice quick, jerky motion, so don’t thrash about. If you can, back off slowly without drawing attention to yourself.
Keep eye contact with the shark: As you back away, keep your eyes on the shark. A shark that knows it’s being watched is often put off.
Stay vertical in the water: Try to hold an upright position. Sharks are more likely to go after something swimming flat and horizontal.
Put something between you and the shark: If it comes close, get a boat, surfboard, or any nearby object between you and the shark. A spear gun, camera, or anything solid you’re holding can also be used to fend it off.
Leave slowly: When it’s safe to do so, swim calmly and slowly toward the beach or a boat, keeping your eyes on the shark the whole time.
If other people are nearby, signal for help quietly so they can assist you without drawing the shark’s attention.
Know when to fight back: If it comes to it, go for the shark’s eyes, gills, or nose, and use anything you have as a weapon.
Get medical help: Even a small shark bite can do serious damage. If you’ve been bitten, get medical help right away, no matter how minor it looks.
The truth is most sharks have no interest in humans, and run-ins are rare to begin with. Knowing what to do and diving with a bit of caution keeps the odds firmly in your favour.
