The number of shark sightings at New York and New Jersey beaches have increased over recent years. This is a sign of a healthy ocean, since there are more smaller fish for these bigger fish to feed on.
It also means that swimmers need to take precautions while enjoying Gateway's lifeguarde beaches.
Only swim at lifeguarded beaches (Great Kills Park in Staten Island; Jacob Riis Park in Queens, and Beaches C, D, and G at Sandy Hook) while lifeguards are on duty.
Don't swim too far from the shore.
Don't go into the water if bleeding from a wound. Sharks have an acute sense of smell.
Leave shiny objects at home. The reflected light resembles fish scales.
Avoid areas where schools of fish are visible.
If a shark is spotted, lifeguards will determine the size of the shark and assess the shark's behavior. These two things will help determine if a closure is necessary.
If a closure is initiated, the closure will last for one hour after the last sighting of the shark.
