Florida authorities have confirmed that a shark attacked a man at New Smyrna Beach, marking the second bite in 24 hours at the same beach.
The shark attack occurred on Friday around 4:15 p.m. when a 26-year-old man from Sarasota was enjoying a float in five feet of water and was bitten on his left leg. Although the bite wounds are not life-threatening, the young man was rushed to a hospital for urgent medical treatment.
New Smyrna Beach has reported two shark attacks within a 24-hour period. The first incident involved a 21-year-old visitor from Ohio on July 4th. The young man was playing soccer in knee-deep water near Flagler Avenue when the shark attacked him unexpectedly around 4 p.m.
This Florida beach has been very crowded throughout the holiday week. The pleasant weather continues to attract people to the sea, prompting lifeguards to advise visitors to stay vigilant and follow safety guidelines to prevent accidents.
On July 4th, two other individuals were attacked by sharks in the tourist area of South Padre Island, near the city of Brownsville in southern Texas. Agents from the Border Patrol’s Search, Trauma, and Rescue Unit pulled one of the victims from the water and applied a tourniquet to the leg to stop the bleeding.
Texas authorities note that such encounters with sharks are not common along their coasts.
Shark Attacks at New Smyrna Beach
In light of the recent incidents at New Smyrna Beach, here are some common questions and answers regarding shark attacks and safety measures.
How common are shark attacks at New Smyrna Beach?
New Smyrna Beach is known for having one of the highest numbers of shark attacks in the world. However, the likelihood of being bitten is still very low compared to the number of people who visit the beach.
What should I do if I see a shark while swimming?
If you see a shark while swimming, remain calm and slowly exit the water. Avoid sudden movements and try to keep the shark in view as you make your way to shore.
Are there any specific times when sharks are more active?
Sharks are generally more active during dawn and dusk. It's advisable to avoid swimming during these times to reduce the risk of an encounter.