Statement from Cape Cod Chamber regarding Shark Attacks

We are extremely saddened by the news of the death of the swimmer today, and extend our sympathies and expressions of support to the family. While details are just now unfolding that can tell us more, we want to note that shark/human interactions are still extremely rare.  The University of Florida data shows that in 2017, 88 people reported unprovoked contact with sharks, five of which were fatal, worldwide.  Sharks have been in our oceans for over 400 million years.

However, for Cape Cod, we are experiencing an increasingly active shark population, which is a relatively new phenomenon for our region, requiring us to learn best practices to in order to keep humans educated and safe.  Local, national and international media coverage and extensive content in many information channels, including our own website continues to advise residents and guests to avoid swimming near seals, stay close to shore, avoid swimming where there are known to be sharks, and avoid dawn/dusk and night swimming, for example.

The Cape Cod Chamber will continue to work with the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy and the Cape Cod National Seashore and others in providing facts and tips to help swimmers stay safe.