This mesmerizing and peaceful clip contains a sharp reminder of the hazards of getting into the ocean. A female diver is protected by a metal shark cage as she floats in crystal clear blue waters. But she is not alone. As well as the shoals of small fish that have gathered to investigate, a great white shark is also checking out what is going on. As the video at the bottom of this page shows, getting investigated by a great white shark is not a pleasant experience at all!
How Do Sharks Behave Around Humans?
There is a huge range in shark reactions to humans. Some will actively avoid us, some will ignore us and some will interact with us. An interaction can be anything from circling us to an actual physical attack. Videos like this are scary. However, you are far more likely to be struck by lightning than you are to die from a shark attack!
No one knows exactly why sharks interact with us and there are likely to be several reasons. One of the most popular is that sharks are inquisitive and are simply trying to find out what we are. Unfortunately, a key investigative strategy for a shark is biting. Given that many sharks have sharp teeth, that can result in serious injuries for the human.

©iStock.com/vladoskan
How Can Divers Avoid a Shark Attack?
According to the Florida Museum International Shark Attack File, the most important thing to do if a shark approaches you when diving is to stay calm. The chances are it will swim away quite quickly. If you have been spear-fishing, quietly release your catch and move away from the area. Getting out of the water calmly is also a good idea.
You can spot a shark acting aggressively by its movements. It will make rushes at you, hunch its back, lower its pectoral fins and swim in a zigzag but rapid way. It may also swim with rapid up and down movements. If this happens, back up against a rock so that it is harder for the shark to rush at you and use whatever objects you have with you to fend it off. Luckily, this diver was in a shark cage and so she was protected on all sides but it is still a startling experience!
Watch the Heart-Stopping Moment Below
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