Editor’s note: This story has been updated with edits to references of a shark’s ability to smell blood for clarity, given conflicting expert testimonies on the topic.
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — Shark attacks in California are quite rare, but if an incident in Del Mar on Sunday that left a 46-year-old man injured is any indication, it’s not entirely out of the realm of possibility when visiting the beach.
Since 1950, there have been 213 shark incidents across all species, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife — the vast majority being non-fatal. Even with the growth of beach activities, officials note there has not been a proportional increase in shark incidents.
Scientists say most of these interactions between human and shark are not predatory attempts, but rather exploratory bites in the course of investigating unusual objects in their environment. The remainder are believed to be caused by a shark mistaking a person for their usual prey.
While experts say staying out of the ocean is the only guaranteed method of avoiding it, there are things that beachgoers should know about the sharks that reside in San Diego’s coastal waters and what to do if they end up interacting with one.
What sharks attack people in California?
According to the Department of Fish and Wildlife, white sharks, or “great white sharks,” are predominately responsible for shark incidents across California. The species is known for its white underside and dark-gray to brown top, accompanied by a large first dorsal fin.
White sharks primarily reside in cool, coastal waters in the eastern Pacific — from Baja California to the Gulf of Alaska. If they attack humans, researchers with the California Academy of Sciences say it often happens near the surface in water about 10 to 30 feet deep.
There is not one period of time that sharks are particularly active, with attacks having been record in every month of the year. However, as Cal Academy scientists explain, these incidents have been most common in August and September, as well as during the hours of 7 a.m. and 6 p.m.
How to avoid a shark attack
While its best to avoid deeper coastal waters to steer clear of risky sharks, it is likely not entirely possible for people who enjoy swimming, kayaking or surfing in the ocean. In that case, there is a few things experts suggest to keep in mind before heading out:
- Experts urge people to steer clear of any dead animals or fishing boats, which can leave a trail of fish remains and blood that is enticing for a shark. Scientists say sharks can tell the difference between human blood and fish blood, and they seek out the latter for dinner.
- As they can tell the difference between human blood and fish blood, there are conflicting reports on whether a shark will be drawn to its scent if you sustain a scrape, for instance. While some scientists say you should be safe, if you want to take maximum precaution, it is encouraged to avoid the water.
- If you see a large group of dolphins or seabirds, experts say a shark may be close by. These creatures are attracted to similar types of food as sharks — or soon could become prey themselves.
- Refrain from excessive splashing in the water and keep pets out of the water. Erratic activity can attract a shark’s attention, experts say. If you are approached by a shark, stay as still and quiet as possible to avoid provoking it.
- Always swim, surf or dive with other people and stay in sight of first responders, such as lifeguard towers. Most shark attacks happen when an individual is alone in the water.
What to do if you’re attacked
If you’re not able to avoid a shark, there are ways you can defend yourself or prevent life-threatening impacts.
Should you notice an imminent attack before it happens, use whatever weapon you can to fight against it, like a surfboard, dive gear or fishing equipment — try to avoid using hands and feet. If you have to use hands, concentrate attacks on the shark’s eyes, nose and gills.
Making sudden movements is also encouraged at this point to try and scare the shark. According to experts, “playing dead” does not work to get the shark to back off.
If you’re bitten, try to stop the bleeding and leave the water as efficiently and calmly as possible to prevent a second attack. Once you’re out of the water seek immediate medical attention, no matter how small the injury might be.
