If your surfboard looks like a pinniped, could it result in a "hit and run?" Read on for the answer.
It is scary that some surfers fall victim to unprovoked shark attacks each year. There are three main ways that sharks attack. In all cases, it is rare to ever see it coming. Although we do not see many if any shark bites here, it is always wise to be prepared.
How sharks attack:
1)“Hit and Run” attacks
While we disdain this behavior in licensed drivers, it is the least vile attack of all shark attacks. This form of attack is the most common form to surfers, but luckily not the deadliest. It involves a single bite or slash wound in which sharks do not return. Often, sharks are testing to see if you are food. Their minds work like a computer, and they are trying to determine if you are what they are looking for. They are placing you in the search engine. If you are surrounded by their food source, when they lunge, it is common for them to “taste” you and miss their target. But, a shark’s version of a lick packs a mean punch. With that kind of force, you may not be lunch, but you will be “left-over.” Many surfers have gotten a chunk of their foot lacerated, or a missing arm or leg. But, luckily they are alive. Everyone knows of Bethany Hamilton and how she still surfs today after her horrible accident. Hopefully, these accidents will be avoided in the future as surfers become more aware of their surroundings. Remember, when in the midst of a school of fish take action to prevent such mayhem by pulling in your appendages.
2)“Sneak” attacks
Much like a stealthy navy seal, you would not see this shark attack coming. Sneak attacks are the most fatal shark attacks. If a Great White noticed your board from below and came charging from the depths, you would no longer be a surfer, you would be his. There is no way to foresee these kinds of attacks. The best way to prepare for this is your desire to stay alive. But after repeated bites, this form attack often proves itself fatal.
3)”Bump and Run” attacks
These attacks can be easily envisioned because of the movie, Jaws. This may involve one or multiple sharks. It occurs when the shark begins to circle you, moving vastly closer in proximity. The shark then proceeds to bump you from whatever vessel is harboring you. These attacks frequent plane crashes, and like sneak attacks, grueling at best.
Local Note: We have tiger sharks, blacktips, and bull sharks frequenting our waters. Tigers and bulls, as if their names were not a fierce enough description, are prone to both sneak attacks and bump and runs. Blacktips are more likely to hit and run. But remember, shark attacks are extremely rare!
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