Posted on: Wednesday, March 27, 2002

What to do if a shark attacks

•	Kaua'i shark victim tells his tale of survival
	See video of shark attack victim Hokuanu Aki as he describes how he escaped with his life

Advertiser Staff

Although water safety experts say shark attacks are rare in Hawai'i, here's what you can do if a shark attacks.

• If a shark moves toward you, face it and strike it if it attacks, according to Jim Howe, chief of operations for Honolulu's Ocean Safety Division. If the shark moves away, deliberately and calmly retreat from the water.

• Don't panic. Sharks can detect fear.

• Most victims don't know the shark is coming until it bites. At that point, Howe said, the best defense is going for the eyes or gills to try to force the shark to let go.

• If the shark lets go, move as quickly as possible out of the water. The greatest risk at that point is bleeding to death before you can get help.

• Anyone who encounters a shark bite victim should keep them still, in the shade, and stop the bleeding by elevating the wound, holding pressure points or applying direct pressure or a tourniquet as a last resort.