Lifeguards are notifying swimmers about two sharks recently spotted by fishermen off Huntington Beach.
The two juvenile sharks were briefly caught by the fishermen but freed themselves by biting through the lines and returning to the ocean, Huntington Beach Lifeguards posted on Instagram .
“These sightings remind us that the sea is their home, and we share these waters with marine life of all kinds,” the post read.
The Huntington Beach Fire Department Marine Safety Division has requested assistance from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to conduct patrol checks. Officials have also collaborated with HB-1 Police helicopter to perform a flyover of the area.
No sharks were observed during these checks but the area will continue to be monitored with increased patrols, HB Lifeguards stated.
The Lifeguards offered the following shark safety tips to minimize risk:
- Swim, surf, or dive with other people, and don’t move too far away from assistance
- Stay out of the water at dawn, dusk, and night, when some sharks may move inshore to feed
- Do not enter the water if you have open wounds or are bleeding in any way. Sharks can detect blood and body fluids in extremely small concentrations
- Avoid murky waters, harbor entrances, areas near stream mouths (especially after heavy rains), channels, or steep drop-offs. Sharks are known to frequent these waters
- Do not wear high-contrast clothing or shiny jewelry. Sharks see contrast very well
- Refrain from excessive splashing. Sharks are known to be attracted to such activity
- If a shark is sighted, leave the water quickly and calmly. Do not provoke or harass a shark, even a small one.
- Be alert to the presence of dolphins, as they are prey for some large sharks
- Do not swim near people fishing. Stay away from dead animals in the water
- Swim or surf near lifeguards and follow their advice