- Former Australian Navy diver and shark attack survivor Paul de Gelder says the key to ensuring your survival lies in your behaviour, and advises staying calm and collected during an encounter, as panic can worsen the situation.
- Maintain eye contact with the shark, as they are less likely to attack when they know they are being watched.
- Resist the urge to punch the shark unless absolutely necessary; pushing them away is generally more effective, avoiding sensitive areas like the Ampullae of Lorenzini under their snout.
- If a shark becomes aggressive, target its eyes and gills, though experts note water resistance can weaken a punch.
- Shark attacks are extremely rare, often due to mistaken identity, but swimmers can minimise risk by avoiding areas with many fish, and not swimming alone or at dawn or dusk.
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