Stay safe in the water

The Australian and International Shark Attack Files suggest these measures to minimise chance of a negative encounter with a shark.

Swim at patrolled beaches – the water is monitored and there are trained people there to assist if an interaction does occur.

Do not swim and surf where potentially dangerous sharks are known to congregate.

Always swim, dive or surf with other people. The presence of multiple people may deter an attack and a companion can assist you if a negative interaction does occur.

Do not swim in dirty or turbid water, where visibility would be reduced for both you and the shark.

Avoid swimming at dusk, dawn or at night. Sharks are more active and there is also low visibility.

Avoid swimming far off-shore, near deep channels, between sandbars or along drop-offs to deeper water. Sharks are more likely to inhabit deeper water, and you are further from help.

Avoid river mouths, especially after rainstorms. Changes in salinity can affect shark behaviour and rain can wash potential food into the sea.

Do not swim among schooling fish or where birds are diving, because this indicates schools of baitfish.

Do not swim near people fishing or spearfishing.

Kayakers should raft up together to look bigger if a large shark is seen in the area.

Do not swim with pets, because sharks can be attracted to their erratic splashing.

Look carefully for the presence of sharks before jumping into the water from a boat or wharf.