What to do if you're attacked by a shark

While it's scary to think about, it's important to know what to do if you're attacked by a shark.

If you see a shark

• Remain calm
• Keep it in sight
• If possible, exit the water slowly

If you're attacked

• Defend yourself - playing dead doesn't work.
• Use whatever you have at your disposal (surfboard, dive gear, fishing equipment) to avoid using your bare hands to attack the shark
• If you must use your hands, concentrate on attacking the eyes, nose and gills
• Make sudden movements to scare the shark

After the attack

• If bitten, try to stop the bleeding before leaving the water by applying pressure
• Leave the water as quickly and calmly as possible
• Get immediate medical attention, no matter how small the injury

How to help a shark attack victim