Fatal Attack in Sydney Waters
Australia is one of the most well-known surf countries in the world. Most of you are likely aware that surfing is a hazardous activity that carries a risk to your life. A 57-year-old father and husband was fatally attacked, suffering catastrophic injuries. He was surfing with 5-6 friends when the incident occurred. Unfortunately, with him losing all his limbs, he also lost a large amount of blood and was pronounced dead at the scene. Sydney, Australia, is where this took place. Locals usually don’t worry about being attacked because the last reported attack in the Sydney waters was reported in 1963. In total, since 1791, there have been 1,280 shark attacks. In America, 1,956 have been attacked since 1791. The police and coast guard are still looking for the shark that killed this man, with helicopters and emergency vessels. They were able to recover small parts of the board and are now analyzing them to determine the type of shark. Beaches 7 miles away from the location of the attack were closed for 2 days for the safety of people.
Shark Attacks in the U.S.
Should Americans be scared of shark attacks? Florida is the most well-known place for shark attacks, sharks are all surrounding Florida beaches, and you never know when one will attack. In the Florida Museum shark file, it is recorded that 942 attacks have happened since 1837 in the state of Florida. Hawaii has the second-most shark attacks, with 191. California has the third-highest number of shark attacks, with 141attacks. Surfing thrives in Florida, Hawaii, and California due to ideal wave conditions and deep-rooted surf culture. In Florida, California, and Hawaii, surfers travel from all around the world to visit the waves; there are no exact statistics for the number of surfers in America. It is stated that the number has risen for the amount of surfers in the US has risen a 35% increase in just a decade. The assumption most people have is that because Florida has more shark attacks, they have more surfers; unfortunately, that has not been proven.
Surf Culture’s Rise
Surfing became a competitive sport in the 1950s, but it really all started in 1928 when the first organized surf contest was held in Corona del Mar, California. Once people began seeing these surfers freely riding the waves, it really inspired people to start surfing. In the 50s and 60s, it became a trend; it was a popular sport and activity at the time.
Why Sharks Attack
What sharks attack the most? The most aggressive sharks are the great white, bull sharks, and tiger sharks. Why do they attack? Sharks are inquisitive; they can also mistake humans for fish when trying to eat, and they may also feel scared and act defensively. Sharks are often looked at like evil animals, but in reality, they are not “vicious animals ”; they are trying to survive and protect themselves. People look at sharks with pure fear, but the truth is, the ocean is their home, and they may feel humans are invading it.
Staying Safe in the Ocean
Now that we have touched base on the dangers of the ocean, the popularity of surfing, and the number of shark attacks, you should consider the following points when planning to surf or visit the beach.
Before hitting the waves, research local conditions, know the waters, and remember: while sharks deserve respect, awareness, and caution to keep both surfers and wildlife safe. Florida Fish and Wildlife has a list of how to enter the ocean with precaution to really ensure you are ready and know the basics.
