There are a number of measures you can take to dramatically reduce your already slim chances of being attacked by a shark. These measures are based on sensible water use and knowing under which conditions to avoid entering the water:

• Swim in a group, since sharks are more likely to attack lone swimmers
• Do not venture too far from shore or in to deep waters
• Avoid swimming at night, dawn and dusk
• Do not enter the water if you are bleeding
• Avoid areas where fishermen are present  
• Avoid swimming when there are large numbers of bait fish - diving seabirds can be a good indicator of baitfish presence
• Stay away from river mouths, especially after heavy rains, and areas where animal or human waste enters the water
• Avoid splashing and erratic movements
• Avoid areas with deep drop-offs or sandbars
• Stay away from groups of dolphins and seabirds, they are attracted to the same food source as sharks, and sharks hunt dolphins as a prey source
• Avoid areas around seal and sea lion colonies
• Avoid areas where animal, human, or fish waste enter the water
• Do not swim in murky waters