Sharkbusters: 6 Ways Humans Have Tried to Avoid Shark Attacks
Over time, people have tried an impressive range of tactics to repel sharks. But do they work? Not well enough ...
Photo: Cabe Paparone | Radiator wetsuits
YE OLDE STYLE
A 1980 patent for a suit of shark-proof armor was never produced, but it led to Neptunic’s chain mail, used by professional divers to ward off bites. Too heavy for hanging 10!
WATCH OUT!
Colorful wristbands send out magnetic waves that allegedly disturb sharks’ electromagnetic sensors. Said to work best if a whole group wears them.
GOOD VIBRATIONS
An electronic device attached to a surfboard and ankle via a surf leash, Shark Shield is used in Australia, where tests show great whites stop at nothing.
STINKY SPRAY-ON
An aerosol of putrified shark tissues. Yeah, that would keep us away if we were a shark.
BLUE MAN SUIT
If sharks really are colorblind, surely they won’t see you in a blue bodysuit. No, really, you go first.
SSSSSNAKE
The venomous, striped sea snake strikes such fear in sharks that stripes will keep them at bay. That’s the theory, anyway.
READ MORE STORIES BY DON WALLACE