Shark Week: The First Few Minutes That Can Save a Life
- Severe bleeding is the biggest danger after a shark bite, so call 911 immediately, apply firm pressure to the wound, and keep the injured person as still as possible.
- Do not remove objects from a shark bite wound, and keep the person warm, calm, and safe until emergency responders arrive.
- Every shark bite should be evaluated by a medical professional because injuries can damage muscles, nerves, and blood vessels and increase the risk of infection.
- Swimming near lifeguards, avoiding the water at dawn or dusk, staying in groups, and steering clear of fishing areas can help reduce the risk of a shark encounter.
Shark Week is here! The annual TV special shines a spotlight on how important sharks are to a healthy ocean. It also gets people thinking about their safety out in the water. While shark bites are rare, knowing what to do in an emergency can help save a life.
Most people who visit the beach will never experience a shark attack. However, if someone is bitten, the first few minutes are important.
- The biggest danger after a shark bite is severe bleeding. Calling 911 right away should be the first step.
- While waiting for emergency responders, try to keep the injured person as calm and still as possible. Too much movement can make bleeding worse.
- If it’s safe to do so, apply firm pressure to the wound with a clean towel, shirt, or any clean cloth you have nearby. If the bleeding is heavy and doesn’t stop with pressure, emergency responders may use special equipment to help control it.
- Don’t try to remove anything that may be stuck in the wound. Focus on keeping the person safe, warm, and as still as possible until help arrives.
Even if the injury doesn’t seem serious, it’s important to be checked by a medical professional. Shark bites can damage muscles, nerves, and blood vessels, and they can increase the risk of infection.
While shark attacks are uncommon, a few simple precautions can help keep you safe while spending time in the water:
- Swim near a lifeguard when possible.
- Avoid swimming at dawn, dusk, or at night, when sharks are more active.
- Stay in groups. Sharks are more likely to approach someone swimming alone.
- Stay out of the water if you’re bleeding or have an open wound.
- Don’t wear shiny jewelry; it can resemble a fish’s scales.
- Avoid areas where people are fishing.
- Stay aware of your surroundings
When Every Second Counts
In any serious injury, getting expert medical care quickly can make a big difference. Jackson Health System’s Ryder Trauma Center teams at Jackson Memorial Hospital and Jackson South Medical Center are specially trained to care for life-threatening injuries and emergencies.
To learn more about Jackson’s emergency and trauma services, visit JacksonHealth.org.