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Sharks: Attacks are rare but severe. Some species (great white, tiger, whitetip and others) are more
aggressive towards divers. Injuries range from bumps or scratches caused by contact with rough skin to
large bite wounds. Treat all sharks with respect and avoid them, because they are fast, strong and potentially
aggressive.
Killer Whales (Orcas): Killer whales are mammals that usually travel in pods of 3-40 whales. These
carnivores are at the very top of the food chain in the ocean. They have great intelligence, size, speed,
interlocking teeth, and powerful jaws. Even though there are no recorded attacks on humans, there is potential
that any animal this big could strike or bite an irritating diver.
Barracudas: Barracudas are predatory fish found in the tropics that can grow to 10 feet in length. Most
are much smaller (3-5 feet). The barracuda is a fast swimmer with extremely sharp teeth, but attacks
are usually less severe than those of sharks. It rarely attacks divers, but is known to attack surface swimmers
or limbs dangling from boats, and is attracted to bright objects.
Moray Eels: Commonly found in holes and crevices near the ocean floor in tropical and subtropical waters,
the moray eel resembles a large sea snake (up to 10 feet long) in shape and movements. Its face appears
more like a dog with sharp teeth. Once it bites, it may be very difficult to dislodge. The moray eel will usually
bite when a diver comes too close or sticks a hand into its hole or crevice. Mild envenomization may occur
with certain species. Supportive care is all that is needed for this venom.
Sea Lions: These mammals can be very aggressive with divers. Large male sea lions have a reputation
for nipping divers during the mating season. Divers often mistakenly assume these animals as friendly and try
to approach sea lions, provoking a bite. These bites resemble dog bites and are not usually severe.
Crocodiles: Many experts feel crocodiles are more dangerous than sharks. The saltwater and Nile crocodiles
can grow up to 30 feet long. Crocodiles are fast, strong and aggressive reptiles. They are territorial and
often found near river estuaries and brackish water. Treat any crocodile over three feet long as dangerous.
Divers should immediately exit any area inhabited by a crocodile.
Subjective: Symptoms
Severe pain in area of bite or injury; confusion and shock may set in very quickly. Infection may set in 3-7
days after wounding, with pain, redness, swelling, warmth and fever. Focused History: What bit you?
Objective: Signs
Evaluate as a trauma patient.
Using Basic Tools: Airway damage extending from mouth to lungs: tachypnea, labored breathing,
spitting blood, sucking chest wound. Hemorrhagic shock: fast heart rate, pallor, hypotension. Tissue loss,
deformed body parts at bite site.
Assessment:
Differential Diagnosis - other animal bites, blast trauma, other lacerating or penetrating trauma.
Plan:
Treatment - Treat per trauma protocol in this Handbook.
Airway, Breathing, Circulation
- Control bleeding: apply compression dressings, elevate and apply direct pressure. Use pressure points,
tourniquet as needed. - Ensure airway is well established and administer 100% O 2.
- Infuse 1-2 L Ringer’s Lactate or Normal saline by IV for severe blood loss. Monitor vital signs.