CHATHAM, MASS. (WHDH) - The Atlantic White Shark Conservancy is urging Massachusetts beachgoers to be “shark smart” this summer.
As the season hits its peak and swimmers flock to local beaches, the non-profit group based in Chatham wants to the public to know that great white sharks prey upon seals in the coastal waters off Cape Cod and the South Shore, and while encounters with humans are rare, they can happen.
“Through signage at beaches, flag warning systems, educational brochures, newsletters and Social Media, we encourage beachgoers to take precautionary measures to improve their safety,” AWSC President Cynthia Wigren said in a press release.
Here are some important safety tips shared by the Conservancy:
- Do not swim near seals
- Swim close to shore, where your feet can touch the bottom
- Swim, paddle, kayak, and surf in groups
- Do not swim alone in the ocean at dawn or dusk
- Avoid isolation
- Limit splashing and do not wear shiny jewelry, which can look like fish scales to a shark
- Keep your distance (at least 150 feet) from seals, whether they are resting on land or are in the water. It is against the law to disturb them.
- Adhere to all signage at beaches where seals are resting
- Follow instructions of lifeguards
- Become familiar with the beach flag warning system
- Take time to read signage at the beaches
- Download the Sharktivity App to receive alerts and report sightings
Beachgoers can also download the “Sharktivity” app. It provides information about shark sightings and detections.
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