Drone Catches Great White Shark Closely Following Open Water Swimmer

The open water swimmer in this clip is remarkably calm considering he is being tailed by a great white shark. You can almost see the shark’s thought processes as it works out whether a human is on its list of prey or not. The good news is that we are not a natural prey species for great white sharks and therefore attacks are uncommon. However, some people are killed every year by these animals and it pays to be sensible and take precautions when swimming in waters inhabited by them.

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How Likely Are You to Get Bitten by a Shark?

Your chances of getting bitten by a shark are extremely low. Given the number of people who use the ocean for work and for recreation, very few actually get attacked by sharks. Also, short-term trends recorded by the Museum of Florida database of shark attacks indicate that both fatal and non-fatal bites are decreasing. This may reflect advances in beach safety and public awareness. During 2022, Florida had the most attacks in the US followed by New York and Hawaii. You are much more likely to die of a heart attack, cancer, or stroke than in a shark attack.

How Can Open Water Swimmers Prevent Shark Attacks?

Whilst it is impossible to completely prevent a shark attack, there are a number of things that you can do to reduce the risk when swimming in open water.

The main advice is to stay in a group because sharks are more likely to attack a solitary swimmer. It is also best not to swim too far from the shore. This makes you more isolated and further away from someone who could help you. Sharks are most active during darkness and twilight hours so this is the most dangerous time to go swimming. It is also not a good idea to enter the water if you are bleeding. Remember that sharks have incredible olfactory senses and can detect blood from a long way away.

Shiny jewelry should also be avoided. It reflects the water and can make you look as if you are covered in fish scales. Don’t forget that fish are the primary prey of many shark species! It’s best to avoid sand bars and steep drop-offs because these are where sharks like to congregate. If you are attacked by a shark, try to hit it on the nose. This is a sensitive area and can confuse them!