As families and friends head to the coastlines for the holiday weekend, Dr. Robert Hueter, an expert from OCEARCH, shared some practical tips for beachgoers to stay safe while enjoying the ocean. He emphasized the importance of understanding that the ocean is a wild place full of life and not an enclosed pool or lake. Here are some key tips Hueter provided:
1. Assess water conditions: Before entering the water, check for any posted precautions regarding surf and current conditions. Pay attention to rip currents and follow lifeguard guidelines.
2. Do not swim in the food chain: Avoid swimming in areas with heightened animal activity, such as schools of fish or flocks of birds, as larger predators may be feeding on them.
3. Do not swim out too far: Stay within the first sandbar as there may be more sharks in deeper waters during the summer.
4. There is safety in numbers: Swim with others and avoid being alone in the ocean to reduce the risk of being targeted by a shark.
5. Avoid shiny jewelry and bright-colored bathing suits: Shiny jewelry can attract a shark’s attention, as it may resemble fish scales. Similarly, brightly colored bathing suits can draw unwanted attention.
6. Swim in the ocean during the day: Avoid swimming during dusk or dawn when sharks are more active and have an advantage over their prey.
7. Have fun: While following safety precautions, remember to enjoy your time at the beach and be mindful of the increased interactions between people and sharks during the Fourth of July weekend.
By keeping these tips in mind, beachgoers can have a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend while sharing the ocean with its diverse marine life. Hueter’s advice serves as a reminder to respect the ocean’s ecosystem and take necessary precautions to minimize the risk of shark encounters. So, grab your sunscreen and beach gear, and have a fantastic Fourth of July by the shore!