Sharkbanz use special patented magnetic technology to deter sharks from attacking and investigating people. Most shark attacks occur in the shallow waters off Florida and other parts of the east coast of the US, where there are a high number of swimmers and sharks sharing the same space. In shallow, murky waters, sharks rely heavily on their electro-receptors instead of their eyes to “see” what’s around them. They possess the most sensitive electro-magnetic sense of all known animals, and use it to judge distance, shape, and even the heart rate of other animals near them. Sometimes when relying on their electro-receptors, a curious shark may bite a person in order to figure out what he or she is. These unprovoked “hit and run” attacks are the most common type, and Sharkbanz are an excellent defense against them. As the shark approaches a person wearing Sharkbanz, magnetic waves coming from the band disrupt its electro-receptors and it quickly turns away. The experience for the shark is, “like a person suddenly shining a very bright light in your eyes in a dark room, and its not pleasant”, according to Dr. Stroud. Once a shark comes near the band, it frequently leaves the area and does not return.
While there is no 100% guarantee against an encounter, Dr Rice says that by wearing Sharkbanz, the risk is significantly reduced. There’s a fine line between bravery and stupidity, so don’t cross it and provoke a shark by attempting to test this technology yourself. They are wild animals and don’t take kindly to people with bad manners. Respect the animals and they will respect you.