Unconfirmed Shark Sighting in Fairhaven

Residents of Fairhaven reported seeing sharks around West Island State Reservation on Saturday, September 1, 2012.  The town erected warning signs near the beaches as a result.

“The sightings are unconfirmed, but were reported by trustworthy people,” said Fairhaven Harbormaster David Darmofal.  “We decided to err on the side of caution and put up some signs.”

Mattapoisett Assistant Harbormaster Bob Ketchel said that there have been no reported shark sightings around the town waters.

In the last few weeks, West Island has seen a rise in seal colonies, which beach themselves on the shores of the reservation.  According to the Department of Marine Fisheries, more seals can mean more sharks lurking in the waters of the South Coast.

This summer there have been numerous shark sightings off the beaches of the Cape around Orleans and Chatham, though no reports of attacks on swimmers.  But with Labor Day weekend upon us, there are sure to be more beachgoers enjoying the final unofficial days of summer.

Here are some tips to stay safe this weekend, in the unlikely event of a shark sighting.

•If you see a suspicious animal, don’t go into the water.  Report it immediately to a lifeguard or local Harbormaster.

•If you see a shark from the beach, call your Harbormaster.  If possible, take a photograph.

•If you see a shark while you’re in the water, move slowly and deliberately.  Splashing around can draw the unwanted attention of a shark.

•Use common sense.  Do not approach a shark or try to catch it.  Do your best to stay as far away as possible.

By Eric Tripoli