Tips to Reduce Your Risk of a Shark Bite
Although it’s very rare, sharks can sometimes mistake humans for food and bite. Remember, when you’re swimming in the ocean, you’re swimming in their home. To reduce your risk of attracting a shark and to increase the enjoyment of all beach goers, please observe the following Georgetown County regulations and safety tips:
AVOID THE OCEAN DURING STORMS.
AVOID FISHING WITHIN 50 YARDS OF SWIMMERS.
AVOID SWIMMING WITHIN 50 YARDS OF PEOPLE FISHING.
AVOID BEING IN THE WATER DURING DAWN, DUSK, DARKNESS OR TWILIGHT HOURS. Sharks are most active during these times.
AVOID WATERS WHERE THERE ARE SIGNS OF BAIT FISH. If you see seabirds diving, that means there are fish in the water in that spot, and the fish will also attract sharks.
SWIM IN A GROUP. Sharks are more likely to mistake a solitary individual for prey.
HEED WARNINGS. Leave the water if sharks are sighted.
DON’T BE AFRAID TO FIGHT BACK. Sharks respond to power and are more likely to flee if you fight back by hitting them in the nose, eyes or gills.
DO NOT SWIM TOO FAR FROM SHORE.
DO NOT ENTER THE WATER IF BLEEDING.
AVOID WEARING JEWELRY. Shiny jewelry reflects light and resembles the sheen of fish scales.
AVOID WEARING BRIGHTLY COLORED CONTRASTING CLOTHING IN THE WATER. Sharks see contrast particularly well.