Lifeguards

Sharks

Beach lifeguards have the added task of keeping an eye out for sharks and rescuing shark attack victims. Sharks tend to frequent waters where there are large schools of fish, seals or rookeries and are more active around dusk, when fish commonly feed.

In order to avoid shark encounters swimmers and lifeguards should observe the following:

• Never swim, dive or surf alone- only in groups and only in patrolled areas.
• Don't swim in waters where sharks are known to congregate, including sandbars, steep drop-offs, channels, river mouths or murky waters.
• Keep pets out of the water.
• Don't splash excessively or make erratic movements.
• Avoid areas where animal, fish or human waste enters the water.
• Do not swim at dawn, dusk or night.
• Do not enter the water while bleeding and exit the water as soon as you notice a bleeding wound.
• If a shark is spotted, exit the water as quickly and calmly as possible without excessive splashing and noise.
• Do not wear high-contrast swimwear or shiny jewelry.
• If fish or turtles begin acting erratically, exit the water.
• Do not swim near people fishing and stay away from dead animals in the water.

In most shark attacks, massive tissue loss or bleeding is the usual cause of death. It is important to attempt to stop the bleeding by applying direct pressure. All wounds need aggressive cleaning with fluids to prevent infection and must be inspected closely for tooth fragments or debris. The victim may also require a tetanus booster and antibiotics.