Seek safety immediately and take swift action to protect yourself. If you are near a boat, make your way to it and climb aboard. If you are surfing, head towards the shore. In the case of abalone or urchin divers, finding refuge in rocky crevices or gaps can provide natural protection against white sharks.

The success of evading a shark depends on its intentions towards you, which can vary depending on factors such as the shark’s aggressiveness, size, hunger level, and your location in the water. It is possible that the shark may completely disregard your presence. However, it is still advisable to retreat to safety, even if the shark is smaller or seems uninterested.

The reassuring news is that if you are able to observe a white shark approaching you, it is likely not actively hunting you. White sharks are ambush predators and prefer to swiftly incapacitate their prey with a surprise attack from below. Being aware of the shark’s presence increases your chances of avoiding injury or death.