Exploring the underwater world is thrilling, but encountering a shark can be intimidating. While attacks are rare, being prepared is essential for every scuba diver.

While you may feel scared to think about that, it’s important to know what to do if you’re attacked by a shark. This guide will help you understand where shark attacks are most likely to happen, how to react if you spot one, and what to do in the unlikely event of an attack. You’ll also learn how to assist a fellow diver if they need help.

Stay calm, stay aware, and enjoy the dive with confidence.

Do Sharks Attack In Shallow Water Or The Deep Sea?

Shark attacks can be divided into three categories: attacks on swimmers, who are usually near the shore, attacks on surfers, and attacks on scuba divers.

The Florida Museum of Natural History reported that:

• Attacks on swimmers and surfers commonly happen in 6 to 10 feet of water.
• Most shark attacks on divers have occured in around 31 to 40 feet of water. The second and third most common depths for these types of attacks are 11–20 feet, followed by 0–5 feet.

According to the Huffington Post, most shark attacks occur near shore, sandbars, or deep drop-offs, as that’s where sharks usually find prey.

How Stuff Works suggests that the most common times of day for shark attacks are dawn and dusk because sharks are actively feeding during these times.

If You See a Shark

• Stay calm.
• Keep it visible.
• If you can, leave the water slowly.

If You’re Attacked

• Defend yourself – pretending you are dead won’t work.
• Use anything available at your disposal (dive gear, surfboard, fishing equipment) as it isn’t recommended to use your bare hands to fight the shark.
• If it is unavoidable to use your hands, target the eyes, nose and gills.
• Move suddenly in repetitive manners in order to scare the shark.

After the Attack

• If the shark bites you, control the bleeding as possible before exiting by applying pressure.
• Leave the water as quickly and as possible without making any noise.
• Seek medical help immediately, regardless of the size of the injury.

How to Help a Shark Attack Victim

• Try to control bleeding before leaving the water by pressing on pressure points or by applying tourniquets.
• Get the victim out of the water immediately.
• Wrap the victim in a blanket in order to protect him from cold and minimize heat loss.
• Don’t move the victim too much after leaving the water.
• Call for medical help.