The director of a renowned shark research center in California, Chris Lowe, shared some valuable tips on how to stay safe and not panic when encountering a shark at the beach this summer season. Lowe emphasized that sharks will act aggressively when they feel threatened by humans. He used the analogy of a cat arching its back when cornered to illustrate this point.
According to Lowe, sharks in Southern California are regularly around swimmers and, most of the time, they largely ignore humans. He mentioned that sharks in this region can be quite shy and often swim right in front of people without causing any harm. Lowe advised that if you spot a shark, it’s essential to keep your eyes on the predator and let it know that you see it.
In the event that you lose sight of the shark, Lowe recommended looking behind you as predators often investigate from that angle. He also explained that aggressive shark behavior can be identified when they rapidly come close and then move away repeatedly. However, if a shark is swimming slowly, it may just be curious rather than aggressive.
If a shark does display aggressive behavior, Lowe advised slowly moving back while maintaining eye contact with the shark. He stressed the importance of notifying others, including lifeguards, if you encounter an aggressive shark to ensure the safety of everyone in the water.
The Shark Lab at Cal State University (CSU) Long Beach is dedicated to researching shark behavior and educating the public about shark activity. Lowe mentioned that they use various methods, such as Shark Shacks at different beaches in Southern California and open house events like Sharks at the Beach, to engage with the community and provide valuable information about sharks.
Overall, staying calm, keeping an eye on the shark, and slowly moving away if the shark displays aggressive behavior are crucial steps to ensure safety when encountering a shark at the beach. By following these tips and being informed about shark behavior, beachgoers can enjoy the ocean responsibly and safely during the summer season.