184 Sharks: The Animal Answer Guide
just unpalatable but also toxic. Reports in the literature indicate that sled
dogs fed the raw meat stumble around, acting as if they were drunk. It’s not
known if the dogs were also given Brennivín.
What should I do if I’m attacked or injured by a shark?
Here’s what the International Shark Attack File (www.flmnh.ufl.edu/
fish/sharks/isaf/2012summary.html) recommends if someone is attacked by
a shark:
We advise a proactive response. Hitting a shark on the nose, ideally with
an inanimate object, usually results in the shark temporarily curtailing its
attack. One should try to get out of the water at this time. If this is not
possible, repeat[ed] bangs to the snout may offer temporary restraint, but
the result is likely to become increasingly less effective. If a shark actually
bites, we suggest clawing at its eyes and gills, two sensitive areas. One should
not act passively if under attack—sharks respect size and power.Dealing with injury comes next. Minor bites and stab wounds from
spines should be treated like any deep cuts, by stopping bleeding, cleansing
the wound, using antibiotics to prevent infection, and so on. Some highly
venomous stings, such as those caused by stingrays, can be excruciatingly
painful. For stingray stings, first aid manuals suggest applying hot com-
presses (but not so hot as to burn) to the wound to destroy the proteins in
the venom. Professional medical help may be needed because some peo-
ple are particularly sensitive and can go into anaphylactic shock and stop
breathing. The major danger from shark bites is blood loss and shock; even
minor bites are likely to require prompt, professional medical attention.
Once you have received medical help, consider filing a report with the
International Shark Attack File (www.flmnh.ufl.edu/fish/sharks/isaf/ques
tionintro.htm).
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