22-07-2025
How many shark attacks in Florida? What to do to reduce chances of being bitten by shark
During the summer, the primo spot for a hot and sunny day is the beach.
Even with the calm nature of the beach, some might be wary of going too deep into the ocean for fear of getting bitten by a shark.
The Florida Museum of Natural History puts the odds of being attacked by a shark at 1 in 11.5 million, but it's still a fear for many beachgoers.
Here's what to know about shark bites on the Treasure Coast and how to stay safe when swimming at the beach.
Shark bites on the Treasure Coast
Since 1998, there have been 76 shark bites, two of which were fatal. There have been no reported shark bites this year, but in 2024, there was one at Bathtub Beach in Martin County.
The 2024 bite was the second time Cole Taschman had been bitten by a shark — at the same beach, 11 years apart.
Database: Shark bites on the Treasure Coast since 1998
How many shark attacks happened in Florida in 2024?
There were 14 reported bites in Florida, a slight decrease from 16 in 2023, according to the University of Florida's International Shark Attack File 2024 report released in February.
Taschman sustained a shark bite while paddling out near Bathtub Beach on Oct. 25. A seven- or eight-foot tiger or bull shark bit his feet in one bite, according to Taschman.
The United States recorded the most bites, totaling 28, including one fatality in Hawaii.
Reduce the odds of being bitten by a shark
Here are some tips from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for reducing your odds of being bitten by a shark, even though the chances are already low:
Always stay in groups, as sharks are more likely to bite a solitary individual.
Do not wander too far from shore.
Avoid being in the water during dark hours or twilight, when sharks are most active.
Do not enter the water if bleeding from an open wound or if menstruating because a shark's ability to smell blood is acute.
Wearing shiny jewelry is discouraged because light reflects off shiny jewelry, which resembles the sheen of fish scales.
Avoid waters with known discharges or sewage and waters used for any type of fishing, especially if there are signs of baitfish or feeding activity. Diving seabirds, which frequently feed on baitfish, are good indicators of such activity.
While there are myths and anecdotes about dolphins saving humans from shark bites, the presence of dolphins does not necessarily indicate the absence of sharks, as both often eat the same foods.
Use extra caution when the waters are murky.
Remember that sharks see contrast particularly well. Uneven tans and bright-colored clothing may draw a shark's attention.
Refrain from excess splashing, as this may draw a shark's attention.
Do not allow pets in the water as their erratic movements may draw a shark's attention.
Be cautious when occupying the area between sandbars or near steep drop-offs since sharks like to hang out in these areas.
Swim only in areas tended by lifeguards.
Do not enter the water if sharks are known to be present, and get out of the water if sharks are sighted.
Never harass a shark.
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What to do if a shark starts attacking you
If a shark gets near you or tries to bite you, here's what the Florida Museum of Natural History recommends:
Maintain eye contact with the shark
Slowly move away and exit the water if possible
Hit shark in the eyes and gills since these are sensitive areas that can be hurt, regardless of your own personal strength
Hit the shark on the snout and push away since water-resistance can weaken a punch
Gianna Montesano is TCPalm's trending reporter. You can contact her at 772-409-1429, or follow her on X @gonthescene.
This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Which state has had the most shark attacks? Shark swimming safety tips
