Shark Bites: First Aid and Emergency Response
Shark bites can occur without warning, as most people are unaware that a shark is nearby before an encounter. In some cases, individuals experience a bump or abrasion rather than a true bite, often when a shark is investigating activity at the water’s surface.
Shark skin contains tiny, tooth-like structures that are abrasive and can cause significant scrapes even without a bite. When bites do occur, they are often identified by crescent-shaped wounds or parallel cut patterns, caused by the shark raking its teeth across tissue.
Although shark bites can result in severe tissue loss, many reported cases involve superficial cuts or puncture wounds that do not damage major nerves or blood vessels.
When to Seek Medical Care
Medical care should be sought for all shark bite injuries, except for very minor surface abrasions.
A healthcare professional will assess the wound for:
- Damage to nerves or blood vessels
- Muscle or organ involvement
- Risk of infection or tissue death
Even wounds that appear minor can worsen without proper treatment.
First Aid and Management
All shark bites require medical evaluation. Immediate first aid focuses on:
- Controlling bleeding with direct pressure
- Cleaning the wound if possible
- Preventing shock by keeping the individual calm and warm
A doctor may prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection and perform suturing or surgical repair if deeper tissue damage is present.
What to Do Immediately After a Shark Bite
- Get the person out of the water safely
- Apply firm, direct pressure to control bleeding
- Keep the individual lying down and warm
- Call emergency medical services immediately for serious injuries
If the wound appears minor:
- Rinse gently with clean water and soap
- Cover with a sterile dressing
- Seek medical care as soon as possible
Severe bleeding, deep wounds, or signs of shock require urgent emergency response.
Important First Aid Education Note
This information is provided for educational and first aid awareness purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical care. Shark bites are medical emergencies that require prompt evaluation and treatment.
Understanding how to control bleeding, manage shock, and respond to traumatic injuries is a critical part of first aid preparedness. St. Mark James Training, Canada’s largest 100% Canadian-owned and operated first aid and CPR training provider, offers first aid and CPR training that includes severe bleeding control and emergency response skills for both domestic and travel-related emergencies.