Where do shark attacks occur in Florida? What you should know

Shark attacks are extremely rare in Florida, although there are certain times and areas where they are more common.

In the past week alone, attacks have occurred in New Smyrna Beach and Ponce Inlet.

According to the Florida Museum’s International Shark Attack File, there have been nearly 1,000 confirmed, unprovoked shark attacks in Florida since 1882.

Of the 26 counties on the list, Volusia County tops the list with 343 incidents, making it the “shark bite capital of the world.”

Meanwhile, Brevard County follows in second place with 156 attacks.

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The rest of the list is as follows:

However, the data also shows that most shark attacks are not fatal: between 2010 and 2019, only 6.8% of these attacks resulted in a death.

Additionally, shark attacks are more common at certain times of the year. Most unprovoked attacks occur in the afternoon and late summer.

In addition, most unprovoked shark attacks since 1926 have been committed by requiem shark species.

On the other hand, mako and blue sharks are each responsible for an estimated 1% of these attacks.

To reduce the risk of a shark attack, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission offers the following tips:

• Always stay in groups: Sharks are more likely to attack individuals who are alone.

• Do not go too far from the shoreThis isolates the swimmers and makes it difficult to provide assistance if needed.

• Avoid staying in the water at night: Although most shark attacks occur during the day, sharks are most active at dusk or at night.

• Do not enter the water if you are bleeding or menstruating.: Sharks can smell blood in the water.

• Pay attention to your appearance: Sharks are good at detecting contrasts, so bright clothing and an uneven tan can attract a shark’s attention.

• Avoid too much spraying: This type of activity can attract the attention of a shark.

The FWC also warns beachgoers and swimmers along the Florida coast to stick to lifeguarded areas and never harass sharks in the wild.

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