What you should know about sharks off Hawaiian waters

July 20th, 2007

A 36-year old visitor was attacked by a tiger shark at Bellows Beach off the coast of O’ahu today. The quick thinking of another visitor from Texas may well have saved the man’s life as he got him to shore quickly and fashioned a tourniquet to slow the bleeding. Some may remember the shark attack that caused Kauai surfer Bethany Hamilton to lose her arm but not her surfing prowess on October 31, 2003.

This brings up the perfect opportunity to pass along some simple tips you should know when swimming where sharks share the water.

Swim, surf or dive with other people, and don’t move too far away from assistance.
Stay out of the water at dawn, dusk and night, when some species of sharks may move inshore to feed.
Do not enter the water if you have open wounds or are bleeding in any way. Sharks can detect blood and body fluids in extremely small concentrations.
Avoid murky waters, harbor entrances and areas near stream mouths (especially after heavy rains), channels or steep drop-offs. These types of waters are known to be frequented by sharks.
Do not wear high-contrast clothing or shiny jewelry. Sharks see contrast very well.
Refrain from excessive splashing; keep pets, which swim erratically, out of the water. Sharks are known to be attracted to such activity.
Do not enter the water if sharks are known to be present. Leave the water quickly and calmly if one is sighted. Do not provoke or harass a shark, even a small one.
If fish or turtles start to behave erratically, leave the water. Avoid swimming near dolphins, as they are prey for some large sharks.
Remove speared fish from the water or tow them a safe distance behind you. Do not swim near people fishing or spear fishing. Stay away from dead animals in the water.
Swim or surf at beaches patrolled by lifeguards and follow their advice.