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Top 10 Ways To Avoid a Shark Attack in Hawaii

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If you’re an avid reader of this blog (and we hope you are!), you just read our post about how there’s been a significant spike in the number of shark bites — turns out, hungry females who have just given birth may be to blame for the increased number of incidents.

But, you don’t want to stay out of the ocean all month! So, let’s examine what you can do to keep yourself safe from a shark attack in Hawaii — thanks to the state website, Hawaii Sharks, you can get all the information you need to avoid becoming a victim, even in October!

Here are the top 10 ways to avoid a shark attack in Hawaii, courtesy of the Department of Land and Natural Resources:

Swim, surf, or dive with other people, and don’t move too far away from assistance. When you book a snorkeling, SCUBA, or surfing excursion through Hawaii Aloha Travel, you’re in safe hands — our professional guides know where and when to take guests to minimize the risk of a shark attack.

Swimming in murky waters can be dangerous because sharks have difficulty seeing. If a shark thinks your're a dolphin or sea turtle, he may try to attack.

Stay out of the water at dawn, dusk, and night, when some species of sharks may move inshore to feed. But be aware that tiger sharks are known to bite people at all times of the day.
Do not enter the water if you have open wounds or are bleeding in any way. Sharks can detect blood and body fluids in extremely small concentrations.
Avoid murky waters, harbor entrances, and areas near stream mouths (especially after heavy rains), channels, or steep dropoffs. These types of waters are known to be frequented by sharks.
Do not wear high-contrast clothing or shiny jewelry. Sharks see contrast very well.
Refrain from excesive splashing; keep pets, which swim erratically, out of the water. Sharks are known to be attracted to such activity.
Do not enter the water if sharks are known to be present, and leave the water quickly and calmly if one is sighted. Do not provoke or harass a shark, even a small one.

Although it's safer to swim with many people, it can be dangerous to make too much commotion in the water. Sharks are attracted to noise and movement.

If fish or turtles start to behave erratically, leave the water. Be alert to the presence of dolphins, as they are prey for some large sharks.
Remove speared fish from the water or tow them a safe distance behind you. Do not swim near people fishing or spearfishing. Stay away from dead animals in the water.
Swim or surf at beaches patrolled by lifeguards, and follow their advice.

Even in high-incidence months like October, heeding these safety tips can reduce your risk of having an unwanted shark encounter. So, make sure you reduce your chances of a shark attack, and enjoy the water any time of year!

Posted by: Bruce Fisher on Dec 12, 2016