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Tips to reduce your chances of a shark attack

Posted at 7:54 PM, May 23, 2016
and last updated 2016-05-24 05:14:39-04

With many recent shark attacks, lifeguards and shark experts are warning people about swimming in specific areas and at certain times of day.

Lake Worth Ocean Rescue Chief Doug Yoakum says swimmers are in more danger near piers where people are fishing.

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"They're putting bait out into the water," Yoakum says, "They're not supposed to be shark fishing from the pier, but you never know what you're going to hook, so it tends to pull them in closer."

In addition to smelling the bait, shark expert Jim Abernethy says sharks are attracted to the vibrations fish make when they head toward food.

"We may be very close to a fish being caught and not even realize it," Abernethy says. "The sharks go rushing in and bite anything that gives that same signature. Paddling in the water, a big splash, might be the same signature as a fish struggling."

Abernethy says never to swim close to a pier or a spot where someone is fishing from the beach. He also says to avoid the ocean if fish can be seen jumping in and out of the water.

"That means that there's predators chasing them underneath the water," Abernethy says.

He adds that beach-goers should avoid swimming when sharks' visibility is limited. Murky water and changes in light at sunrise and sunset increase the likelihood of shark attacks.

Abernethy says swimmers can also be more at risk based on what they're wearing. Yellow is a color swimmers are often told is dangerous, but Abernethy says sharks also respond to people wearing white.

"Dead fish are mostly white," Abernethy says. "That replicates what they're looking for."

The shark expert says shiny objects such as jewelry or metallic swimwear can also trigger a shark bite.

Yoakum says many times, lifeguards can see nearby sharks from their stands. He says when they do, they'll whistle for everyone to get out of the water and usually keep all swimmers out of the ocean for about an hour.