Move slowly toward the shore or a boat; choose whichever is closest. Do not thrash your arms or kick or splash while you swim. Do not block the shark’s path. If you are standing between the shark and the open ocean, move away. [4] X Research source Do not turn your back on the shark as you move. Remember, it is important to keep the shark in view. [5] X Research source
If you are diving near the shore, you may need to descend to find cover. Look for a reef or rock on the bottom of the ocean. In open water, get back-to-back with another swimmer or diver so that you can see, and defend against, an attack from any direction.
If you have a spear gun or pole, use it! A sharp object is a good way to inflict enough pain to scare away the shark. Aim for the head, specifically the eyes or the gills. [7] X Research source If you do not have a weapon, improvise. Use any inanimate object, such as a camera or a rock to ward off the shark. If you have nothing around you, use your own body. Aim for the shark’s eyes, gills, or snout. Fight with your fists, elbows, knees, and feet. [8] X Research source Sharks have surprisingly rough and sharp skin, unlike the smooth scales of other fish, so be aware of this.
If a boat is nearby, call out calmly, but loudly, for them to come to you. Stay as still as possible while waiting, as long as the shark is not actively attacking you; and get into the boat as quickly as possible, once the boat reaches you. If you are near shore, swim quickly, but smoothly. Thrashing will attract the shark’s attention again and disperse your blood, which could draw more sharks. Do the smooth reverse breast stroke, which requires less splashing than other strokes.
