Shark Encounters: What to Do (And What Not to Do) If You Meet One

Shark Encounters: What to Do (And What Not to Do) If You Meet One

For many people, the idea of encountering a shark while swimming or diving sparks both awe and fear. Sharks are often misunderstood creatures, but in reality, they are not mindless killers—they are intelligent, curious, and typically non-aggressive toward humans. However, knowing how to respond in a shark encounter can make all the difference between a peaceful experience and a dangerous situation.

In this guide, we’ll break down what to do (and what not to do) if you come face to face with a shark, whether you’re snorkeling, diving, or surfing in shark-inhabited waters.

Understanding Shark Behavior: Why Do Sharks Approach Humans?

Before diving into safety tips, it’s important to understand why a shark might approach a person in the first place. Most shark species are not interested in humans as prey, but they may approach for the following reasons:

  • Curiosity – Sharks use their senses, including vision and electroreception, to explore their surroundings. Sometimes, they get close simply to investigate.
  • Mistaken Identity – Surfers and swimmers can resemble seals or injured fish from below, especially in murky waters.
  • Territorial Defense – Some sharks, like bull sharks, can be aggressive if they feel their territory is threatened.
  • Food Attraction – If food or bait is present in the water, a shark may come closer to investigate potential prey.

With this knowledge, let’s go over what to do when encountering a shark.

What to Do If You Encounter a Shark

1. Stay Calm and Maintain Eye Contact

  • DO NOT panic or splash around—sudden movements can make you appear like injured prey.
  • Keep the shark in your line of sight. Most sharks prefer ambush hunting, so facing them directly can deter them.
  • Make slow, deliberate movements to avoid triggering an attack response.

2. Maintain a Strong, Vertical Posture

  • If you’re snorkeling or diving, position yourself vertically in the water rather than floating horizontally.
  • A vertical stance makes you look less like a typical shark prey item (like a seal or fish).

3. Slowly Back Away Toward Safety

  • If the shark is near, slowly back toward your boat, shore, or a group of people while maintaining eye contact.
  • Avoid turning your back—sharks are more likely to approach when you aren’t looking.

4. Use an Object to Create Distance

  • If you’re diving, extend a camera, spear, or fin in front of you to create a barrier between you and the shark.
  • Many divers successfully use cameras or GoPros to deter sharks by simply holding them forward.

5. If a Shark Becomes Aggressive, Defend Yourself

  • If a shark shows signs of aggression (arching its back, quick movements, gill flaring), be ready to defend yourself.
  • Aim for the eyes, gills, or snout—these are the shark’s most sensitive areas.
  • Use your hands, a snorkel, or any object to push the shark away firmly.

6. Exit the Water Cautiously

  • Once the shark loses interest or moves away, exit the water slowly and without splashing.
  • If you’re in deep water, avoid swimming erratically toward safety—calm, controlled movement is key.

What NOT to Do If You See a Shark

1. Do NOT Panic or Splash

  • Splashing attracts sharks because it mimics the movements of injured prey.
  • Stay composed—even if your instinct tells you to swim away as fast as possible.

2. Do NOT Turn Your Back

  • Sharks prefer to strike from behind, so always maintain visual contact.

3. Do NOT Play Dead

  • Unlike land predators like bears, playing dead does not work with sharks.
  • Instead, remain assertive and aware—if necessary, be prepared to defend yourself.

4. Do NOT Touch the Shark

  • Some sharks, like whale sharks, are harmless filter feeders, but touching any shark can provoke defensive behavior.
  • Respect their space—sharks are wild animals, not pets.

5. Do NOT Stay in the Water if You’re Bleeding

  • Sharks have an incredible sense of smell and can detect even small amounts of blood.
  • If you have a cut or wound, exit the water as soon as possible.

6. Do NOT Swim in Murky Waters or at Dusk/Dawn

  • Sharks are most active during twilight hours and in low-visibility conditions.
  • Avoid these times if you’re swimming or surfing in shark-prone areas.

How to Minimize the Risk of a Shark Encounter

While shark encounters are rare, taking preventative measures can reduce your chances of running into one:

  • Swim in Groups – Sharks are less likely to approach a large group than a solo swimmer.
  • Avoid Wearing Shiny Jewelry – The glint of jewelry resembles fish scales, which may attract a shark’s curiosity.
  • Use Shark Deterrents – Some divers use electronic shark deterrents, which emit electrical fields that discourage sharks.
  • Stay Away from Fishing Areas – Avoid swimming in waters where fishing boats are present, as bait and fish attract sharks.
  • Respect Their Habitat – If you see a shark in its natural environment, appreciate it from a distance rather than trying to interact.

Final Thoughts: Sharks Are Not Mindless Predators

Despite their reputation, sharks are not out to get humans. Most species are not aggressive, and even the ones that are tend to attack only when threatened or confused. By understanding shark behavior and following proper safety protocols, you can greatly reduce your risk of a negative encounter.

Whether you're snorkeling, diving, or simply enjoying the ocean, being informed and prepared will allow you to appreciate sharks for the incredible creatures they are while staying safe.

Would you like to learn more about specific shark species and their behaviors? Let me know! 🦈

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