Bull Shark Safety Guide

A Guide to Staying Safe in Salt and Fresh Water

Unlike other species of shark, the bull shark is able to tolerate fresh water. As a result of this, it is not uncommon for bull sharks to be found in freshwater rivers and lakes.

In recent years there have been a number of reported attacks by bull sharks in fresh water and also river mouths. Shark attacks on humans however are rare and often the result of mistaken identity. The onus is always on the individual to ensure his or her safety.

Below is a guide on how to stay safe in the water:

Avoid areas around river mouths, especially if the water is cloudy
Particularly after a rainstorm, as rain can wash potential food items into the sea, which can attract fish and sharks. Also the murkiness of the water may confuse the sharks so that they mistake you for prey.
Always check it is safe to swim in the water
Many inland waterways are linked to the sea. Some popular sites may have signs highlighting dangers in that area. Others may not. Always check local information before entering the water.
Don't swim near dawn or dusk or at night
There is strong evidence to suggest sharks move in closer to land when the sun goes down. Also this is when many sharks are most active, and with poor visibility this means sharks can see you better than you can see them. Also, a lack of light can cause confusion for the sharks and they may mistake you for common prey items.
Avoid jewelry in the water
The reflected light looks like shiny fish scales to a shark and sharks can be attracted to these reflections.
Stay away from fishing areas, steep drop-offs and sandbars
Fishing areas, steep drop-offs and sandbars are favourite feeding areas for sharks. Avoid them at all costs. If you see diving sea birds, it is also a good indication that sharks may be present.

For further information on staying safe below are some useful links.

Useful Links
http://www.sharkattackfile.net/recommendations.htm
http://www.flmnh.ufl.edu/fish/Kids/Avoid/avoid.htm
http://www.elasmo-research.org/education/topics/saf_attacks.htm#protect

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