Plettenberg Bay, 31 July, 2024 – As white shark season kicks off along the coast, Shark Spotters are on high alert, ensuring the safety of beachgoers in Plettenberg Bay. With recent sightings indicating the presence of white sharks in the area, the Shark Spotters team urges the public to exercise caution and adhere to lifeguard instructions when enjoying the ocean.

The season’s first confirmed sighting of a Great White Shark occurred at Robberg 1 on July 19th, 2024, at 10:16 am, reported by our vigilant Shark Spotter, Taylin. This emphasises the importance of remaining vigilant and proactive in beach safety measures.

Shark Spotters operate across five key beaches: Lookout Beach, the Wedge, Central Beach, Robberg 1, and The Wreck. Winter spotting hours commence at 7:30 am and conclude at 4 pm.

How It Works:

Shark Spotters operate an early warning system to mitigate the risk of shark encounters through collaborative efforts with Bitou Municipality, Beach Control, and Plett Lifeguards. Trained observers stationed at elevated positions, including the Plettenberg Hotel, The Beacon Isle Hotel, and Robberg mountain, utilize polarized sunglasses and binoculars to scan the ocean continuously. Upon sighting a shark, spotters immediately initiate emergency protocols, including sounding an alarm, while lifeguards advise water users to vacate the water until further notice. This seamless collaboration ensures swift and effective response to potential threats, prioritizing the safety of beachgoers.

The system aims to prevent spatial overlap between sharks and recreational water users, reducing the risk of negative interactions. Given that the great white shark is the primary species of concern in Plettenberg Bay, spotters focus their efforts on detecting and monitoring these predators.

Factors Affecting Spotting Ability:

While Shark Spotters strive to maintain optimal vigilance, several factors can impact their effectiveness, including distance from the spotting site, glare from sunlight, water clarity, atmospheric conditions, and human error. It’s essential for beachgoers to recognize that the service provided by Shark Spotters is advisory, and ocean usage remains at individuals’ own risk.

Enhanced Safety Measures:

In addition to visual surveillance, Shark Spotters are working to implement beach signage and flag systems to provide real-time updates on spotting conditions. Beachgoers are encouraged to consult with spotters and lifeguards regarding any factors affecting spotting ability or indications of increased shark activity in the area.

About Shark Spotters:

Shark Spotters is not only committed to promoting safe recreational use of the ocean but also actively engages in research, education, and conservation efforts in Plettenberg Bay. Beyond its primary role in ensuring beach safety, Shark Spotters conducts valuable research to better understand local shark populations and their behaviour. Through educational initiatives, the organization raises awareness about marine ecosystems and fosters a deeper appreciation for shark conservation. By integrating these aspects into its mission, Shark Spotters strives to create a sustainable balance between human activities and the natural environment along the South African coastline.

Shark Safety Tips:

• Do not swim, surf, or surfski when birds, dolphins, or seals are feeding nearby.
• Do not swim, surf, or surfski when trek-netting, fishing, or spearfishing is occurring.
• Do not swim in deep water beyond the breakers.
• Do not swim if you are bleeding.
• Do not swim near river mouths.
• Do not swim, surf, or surfski at night.
• Do not swim, surf, or surfski if there has been a whale stranding nearby.
• If a shark has recently been sighted in an area where no shark spotters are present, consider using another beach for the day.
• Obey beach officials if told to leave the water.

For more information about Shark Spotters and beach safety protocols, please visit https://sharkspotters.org.za/plett-shark-spotters/

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Contact:

Melissa Nel, Program Manager

mel@sharkspotters.org.za

 

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