Food Chain. So, the best answer to this question would be the lie. The lie would say something like: "Oh, you'll be fine. The odds of you getting attacked by a shark are like getting struck by lightning. Or winning the lottery." But the truth is, as my lovely friend in Maui likes to say, "Once you enter the ocean, you become part of the food chain." And the area you live in is notorious for shark attacks. So, I would say if you are still interested in going in the ocean, you should write a will, say good-bye to your friends and family and walk into those salty rims like you were walking into your grave. Hahahaha! I'm kidding. Just be smart. Don't go in the ocean when there is a shark warning or the weather/ocean temperature is shark friendly. Don't go into the ocean if you are bleeding from any part of your body. (sharks like a little blood). Don't swim alone - make sure there's someone who can help you if anything happens. And learn basic shark fending off skills - if they don't sneak attack you, you can always punch them in the nose. In general, sharks only attack if they're hungry or provoked. And humans aren't their natural prey. If you don't play any angry I-hate-everybody rap on your waterproof Ipod, you should be good to go.

Just to elaborate.... Unlike you, I love sharks, and find them incredibly fascinating...being in the water with them is the greatest addreneline rush I've ever experienced...HOWEVER, I understand your side, so I have a few more tid bits of info to add... Sharks feed at dusk and dawn...don't get into the water during these times! A good rule, is make sure the sun is high in the sky, and you should be fine. Try to surf/swim in a well-populated area...sharks are pretty skittish and aren't going to approach an area with lots of noise and cammotion. And definitely don't go in with a cut of any type...no matter how small. Sharkks can smell something ridiculous, like one molecule of blood in infinity gallons of water or something...not really, but they're the top-dog scent hounds... Worst case scenario, here are some places to focus your anger...nose, eyes, and gills. Just hit, kick and struggle...wow, this didn't turn out as encouraging as I'd hoped!