Shark Week

Jaws, Sharknado, Discovery Channel’s Shark Week – we can’t deny we love a good shark show. Living by the beach along the Gulf of Mexico could either enhance this or very well terrify us. How common are shark sightings in our area? What are the odds of a shark attack while you are on vacation? According to the International Shark Attack File website, the odds of a shark attack are 1 in 11.5 million. Compared to other recorded fatalities, a dog attack is 33 times more common, lightning strike is 30 times more likely, and alligator and bear attacks are twice as common. Even collapsing sand holes and toppling vending machine injuries are much more common than shark attacks. Considering the huge amount of people entering the water each year, you could say that shark attacks are extremely rare. Some have seen the dark shadows going by from the top floors of Destin condos. While there are occasions when surfers and fisherman spot sharks, they are usually just cruising through. So relax! To feel even more secure in the water, avoid going in after sunset or straying far from the shore all alone. Also, avoid shiny jewelry and bright colors that could resemble fish scales to a shark. If you do have a sighting, remain calm. You’re in their habitat and they are looking for other marine life. They are most likely just curious and seeing you with your friends will scare them away. National Geographic says that some sharks can live for a year without eating, so they probably aren’t coming up to the shore for lunch. Hopefully, this eases your mind and your vacation activities will go on as planned. There’s not too much left of summer so enjoy your beach time!  

Published on Wednesday, August 13, 2014