The image is impressive. Filmed a few meters from a boat, a shark was seen off Porquerolles, in the Var, in the middle of July. The sequence, which has become viral, immediately rekindled summer fears to the presence of squales near the French coast. Should we worry? And above all, what if you find yourself face to face with a shark during your swim?
Extremely rare but never impossible attacks
The case of Porquerolles remains exceptional. “”This type of observation is very rare in the Mediterranean“, Recall the local authorities. In 2022, only nine shark attacks were identified worldwide, including three in New Caledonia. In Reunion, no fatal attack has been recorded since May 2019, proof that the risk is today better controlled.
But under certain conditions – fishy waters, swimming at risk, animals attracted by visual or olfactory signals – a shark can approach. And if the animal bites, even without intention to kill, the consequences can be critical. An injury to the femoral artery can cause fatal hemorrhage in a few minutes if the blood loss is not quickly controlled.
How to react in the event of a meeting or attack?
For Dr Gérald Kierzek, emergency doctor and medical director of True Medical, we should not give in to panic. “”Sharks are not our enemies. They rarely bite man to eat it, but more out of curiosity“, He explains. The fact remains that an attack, even isolated, can have dramatic consequences if we do not react properly.
Dr. Gérald Kierzek recalls several essential reflexes to have in mind to maximize his chances of survival:
- Keep the shark in sight at any time. It can change its trajectory without warning;
- Avoid any sudden movement. Do not try to swim faster than him, but to move calmly to a safe area;
- Stick to a rock or massive object to reduce the angles of attack;
- Protect your vital areas. “”Use your fists, blows or claws to defend your head, neck and chest“, Recommends the doctor;
- Use any object available to defend yourself if the attack continues: palm, board, diving bottle…;
- Target the animal’s muzzle or eyes, the most sensitive areas;
- Get out of the water as quickly as possible, never turned your back on the shark.
Prevent above all: the right reflexes to adopt
If the meeting with a shark remains unlikely, especially on French beaches, it is better to adopt some simple precautions:
- Do not swim alone, especially in unreveified areas;
- Avoid troubled waters, river mouths or swimming at sunrise and sunset;
- Do not wear brilliant jewelry or bright -colored clothes, which can draw the attention of the squale;
- In case of doubt or observation reported, respect the instructions of the local authorities and avoid entering the water.
“”Finally keep in mind that sharks generally do not attack humans to eat them, but out of curiosity“Concludes Dr. Kierzek. Fear is natural, but the composure is vital.