According to Surfer Today, there are three types of shark attack: hit-and-run, bump-and-bite, and sneak attacks. Shark attacks typically happen near the shore, in surf zones, or near a sandbar. Should a shark attack happens, it likely mistook you for a tasty seal. Because of this, it's best to frequently change direction while swimming to appear less like prey, and avoid contrasting colors which can sometimes catch a shark's attention. Never swim while bleeding, and staying away from murky water in high-risk areas are also both recommended.

Shark attacks around Réunion Island most often come from bull sharks, which can grow as long as 11 feet and weigh as much as 500 pounds. Bull sharks are aggressive and as a result, considered among the most dangerous shark species to humans, though great whites get far more press, as the National Wildlife Federation notes. Still, shark expert and podcast host Don Duane says the best course of action when it comes to shark attacks is to relax. 

"Your chances of getting bit by a shark are so low as to be meaningless," Duane says. In places like Réunion Island where attacks are more common, though, Duane says to avoid the water at dusk, dawn, or anywhere there's poor visibility. "Poor visibility means a bull shark can sneak up undetected," Duane adds, also known as a sneak attack, and "... that's how bull sharks like to roll," Duane says.

ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7qL7Up56eZpOkunCFlXBqbG9fmsWxsdGtZKudppqurb%2BMsJ%2BarF2uvLZ5zZ6cnWWkpHqlu4yinWaxn6q%2FpnnArauam5uasW6u2GaYZquYlr%2BsecSxmqWto57Dpns%3D