As millions of viewers tune in for Shark Week 2026, a recent shark attack in Fiji serves as an important reminder that ocean safety, lifeguard education, and emergency preparedness remain essential whenever entering the water.
The American Lifeguard Association® (ALA) is encouraging swimmers, divers, surfers, snorkelers, and boaters to use the heightened awareness surrounding Shark Week to review proven shark safety tips and understand how preparation can dramatically improve survival during any aquatic emergency.
A Shark Attack in Fiji Ends with an Important Lesson
According to PEOPLE Magazine, New Zealand fishing influencer Henry Gibbs suffered serious injuries after being bitten by a shark while diving in Fiji during his first dive in the area. His companions immediately removed him from the water and transported him for emergency medical care, where he underwent multiple surgeries and a skin graft. Fortunately, doctors expect him to make a full recovery.
Perhaps most remarkable was Gibbs’ response afterward. Rather than blaming the shark, he acknowledged that he had entered the predator’s natural habitat while pursuing fish.
That perspective reflects what marine scientists and water safety professionals have emphasized for decades: sharks are not actively hunting humans. Most incidents are believed to involve mistaken identity, curiosity, or conditions that naturally attract sharks, particularly around fishing and spearfishing activity.
American Lifeguard Association Featured by PEOPLE Magazine
The American Lifeguard Association has also been featured by PEOPLE Magazine discussing shark safety.
In the article, “How to Prevent a Shark Attack and What to Do If Bitten, According to an Expert,” the Association explains practical steps that can reduce the likelihood of shark encounters while outlining lifesaving actions that improve survival following a bite.
The interview emphasizes three key principles:
- Prevention
- Preparedness
- Immediate emergency response
Shark Week Is the Perfect Time to Review Ocean Safety
While Discovery Channel’s Shark Week celebrates sharks, marine biology, and ocean conservation, it also creates an opportunity to educate the public about responsible ocean recreation.
Every year, millions of people safely enjoy beaches, surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, boating, and fishing around the world.
Despite widespread media attention, shark attacks remain extraordinarily rare compared with the enormous number of hours people safely spend in the ocean.
Education—not fear—is the best approach.
Fast Emergency Response Saved a Life
One of the biggest lessons from the Fiji incident was not the shark itself—it was the quick actions of Gibbs’ diving partners.
They immediately:
- Removed him from the water
- Controlled the situation
- Transported him for emergency medical care
These actions likely played a major role in his recovery.
In serious shark bite incidents, uncontrolled bleeding is often the greatest immediate threat.
Rapid rescue, bleeding control, and advanced medical treatment can make the difference between life and death.
This is why aquatic professionals consistently recommend never diving or swimming alone, particularly in remote locations.
American Lifeguard Association Shark Safety Tips
The American Lifeguard Association recommends following these simple precautions whenever participating in ocean activities.
Never Enter the Water Alone
Always swim, dive, snorkel, or surf with another person whenever possible.
A companion may be able to perform an immediate rescue or summon emergency assistance.
Stay Away from Fishing Activity
Avoid areas where people are:
- Fishing
- Spearfishing
- Cleaning fish
- Using bait
These activities naturally attract sharks.
Avoid Dawn and Dusk
Many shark species are more active during periods of low light.
Swimming during daylight hours generally reduces risk.
Do Not Enter the Water with Open Wounds
Although sharks do not actively seek humans, entering the ocean while bleeding unnecessarily increases risk.
Remove Reflective Jewelry
Bright, reflective objects can resemble baitfish underwater and may attract curious sharks.
Follow Lifeguard Warnings
Beach closures, warning flags, and wildlife advisories exist for public safety.
Lifeguards continuously monitor changing ocean conditions.
Stay Calm During an Encounter
If a shark is observed nearby:
- Remain calm
- Avoid splashing
- Keep the shark in view
- Slowly move toward shore
- Sudden panic can increase danger.
Learn Bleeding Control
Anyone participating in offshore or remote aquatic activities should understand basic bleeding-control techniques, including:
- Direct pressure
- Pressure dressings
- Commercial tourniquets
Immediate bleeding control can save lives before emergency responders arrive.
Preparation Begins Before You Enter the Water
Experienced divers often carry trauma kits when operating in remote environments.
Equally important are:
- Emergency communication plans
- Knowledge of local emergency numbers
- Reliable dive partners
- Understanding local marine conditions
- Basic first aid training
Preparation starts long before an emergency occurs.
Sharks Are Essential to Healthy Oceans
Although shark attacks often generate dramatic headlines, sharks remain among the ocean’s most important predators.
For more than 400 million years, sharks have helped maintain healthy marine ecosystems by regulating fish populations and supporting ecological balance.
Marine scientists consistently emphasize that humans are not a preferred food source.
The overwhelming majority of sharks never interact with people.
Respect Sharks—Don’t Fear Them
Henry Gibbs’ decision not to blame the shark demonstrates an important lesson in ocean stewardship.
Humans enter the shark’s environment—not the other way around.
Responsible ocean recreation means understanding wildlife, respecting marine ecosystems, and making informed decisions before entering the water.
Education Saves Lives
The American Lifeguard Association believes that water safety education remains the most effective tool for preventing aquatic emergencies.
Whether someone is:
- Swimming
- Surfing
- Diving
- Snorkeling
- Paddleboarding
- Fishing
- Spearfishing
- Boating
Proper preparation dramatically improves safety.
The Association encourages everyone to:
- Learn basic first aid and bleeding control.
- Swim at beaches protected by professional lifeguards.
- Follow posted warning signs and local advisories.
- Respect marine wildlife.
- Understand ocean conditions before entering the water.
- Never participate in remote aquatic activities alone.
About the American Lifeguard Association®
For more than 35 years, the American Lifeguard Association® has provided nationally recognized lifeguard certification, CPR, first aid, water safety, and emergency response training throughout the United States and internationally.
The Association is listed by the U.S. Department of Labor alongside other nationally recognized lifeguard training organizations whose programs are considered equivalent to those offered by the American Red Cross for purposes outlined in federal guidance. Through its American Lifeguard and Safety Training™ programs, ALA continues to promote professional lifeguard education, drowning prevention, and safer aquatic environments worldwide.
As Shark Week reminds millions about the incredible role sharks play in healthy oceans, it also reminds us of something equally important:
Prepared, educated, and respectful ocean users are the safest ocean users.
Read the interview here: https://people.com/how-to-prevent-a-shark-attack-according-to-an-expert-7569064
