The Gulf Coast region draws unwanted attention from April through October, when sharks move closer to shore in the spring and summer. But the month of September has the most frequent, unprovoked shark attacks in the U.S., with south Florida having the most interactions. However, shark bites are still very rare, with humans 30 times more likely to be struck by lightning than bitten by a shark.

In 2023, Florida had 16 unprovoked shark bite incidents reported, which represents 44% of the United States total and 23% worldwide, according to CNN.

Volusia County had the most shark bites, and the others were reported in Brevard, St. Lucie, Miami-Dade, Palm Beach, Escambia and Pinellas counties.

There were no fatalities reported last year in the state as a result of the attacks.

How to Identify a Shark VS a Dolphin?

It is not that uncommon to see fins glide across the horizon when you are at the beach. Typically, these fins belong to a pod of dolphins, but how can you tell if it is a shark fin or a dolphin fin?

The best way to tell the difference between the dorsal fins is to look at the back edge of the fin. A dolphin has a curved fin, whereas shark's dorsal fins are more triangular in shape and have a straight edge.

Staying Safe

There are ways you can minimize the risk of shark attack and have a great time in the water this summer.

• Avoid swimming in estuaries, deep water between sandbars and murky water
• Avoid areas near where people are fishing
• Don't swim during dusk and dawn
• Stay near lifeguards
• Don't wear shiny objects in the water
• Always stay in groups since sharks are more likely to bite a solitary individual.
• Avoid waters with known discharges or sewage and waters used for any type of fishing-especially if there are signs of baitfishes or feeding activity. Diving seabirds, which frequently feed on baitfishes, are good indicators of such activity.
• While there are myths and anecdotes about dolphins saving humans from shark bites, the presence of dolphins does not indicate the absence of sharks-both often eat the same foods.
• Do not allow pets in the water: their erratic movements may draw a shark’s attention.
• Remember that sharks see contrast particularly well. Uneven tans and bright colored clothing may draw a shark's attention.