Isle of Palms Winter/Spring 2019-20

13 www.IsleOfPalmsMagazine.com | www.ILoveIOP.com | www.IOPmag.com from fourth in the past decade, which sounds a lot scarier than it is. There have still been only 38 shark attacks reported in the state since 2010 — none of them fatal. As of September, there had been only one fatality in the U.S. caused by a shark bite in 2019, and there have only been 17 deadly attacks in the past 20 years. That amounts to less than one per year. How rare is death by shark attack? You’re more likely to die from a bee sting or the flu. So, don’t forget those vaccinations this fall. And carry an EpiPen. That being said, certain sharks are responsible for the bulk of bites. The most frequent culprits of attacks are typically bull sharks, tiger sharks and the iconic great white of Spielberg fame. However, they are usually more interested in seeking out aquatic menu items, and, often, bites occur when sharks mistake human movements for their prey. South Carolina’s warmer, murkier waters may contribute to our high ranking as well, especially if people are wearing shiny jewelry or bright clothing, since sharks see contrasting colors well and may be drawn to them. Not that any of this matters to people who have been nipped, but the point is that sharks are not the man-seeking missiles that have been, and continue to be, portrayed in the movies. Humans are more of a threat to sharks with overfishing. We can — and should — learn to co-exist with these denizens of the deep. After all, this is their natural habitat and we’re just visiting. So, let’s respect their home. [ Feature ] You should feel safe to take a dip at the beach, but, when in doubt, you can always follow these extra precautions: • Swim in groups. Most sharks attack individuals because they mistake humans for other creatures. • Keep the shore in sight. Straying too far from shore will leave you isolated from help. • Don’t swim at night. Sharks are most active at night and hard to see in the dark. • Don’t swim if you’re bleeding. Sharks can smell and taste blood and trace it to its source. • Avoid wearing jewelry and bright clothing. Sharks see contrasting colors well and could single you out. • Be especially careful near sandbars and steep drop-offs — places where sharks like to congregate. SHARK SAFETY TIPS