AVOIDING CLOSE ENCOUNTERS WITH SHARKS

You probably know this is Discovery Shark Week. So we have an abundance of shark news almost everywhere you turn. Not to mention that over-the-top-even-for-the-SyFy Channel viral hit, "Sharknado." Who would ever dream they would combine killer sharks with twisters?

At any rate, for some practical advice about avoiding sharks, here are some tips courtesy of AccuWeather:

"Despite the odds, to reduce your risk of a shark encounter, see some of the tips below from George H. Burgess Director of the Florida Museum of Natural History's International Shark Attack File and his colleagues."

Tips to Avoid a Shark Attack:

1. Avoid being in the water between sunset and sunrise. (Ocean night swimming -- never a good idea.)

2. Stay in a group and do not wander too far from shore. (That's us way up on the sand in folding chairs.)

3. Avoid wearing shiny jewelry; the reflected light resembles fish scales. (Tough one for Pam, but she wears all her jewelry on the shore.)

4. Avoid brightly colored or patterned clothing, as sharks can see contrast well. (Who knew sharks were fashionistas?)

5. Do not enter waters being used by sport or commercial fisherman. (Watch for those flying hooks!)

6. Avoid entering waters with sewage output and/or entering the water if you are bleeding. (Seriously?)

And now for your viewing pleasure -- Happy Shark Week! -- Gerry