A Public Reminder on Marine Wildlife Awareness and Safety

 The Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR) wishes to remind all residents and visitors to practice safety and awareness when swimming, snorkelling, or enjoying activities along the shorelines of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Our marine ecosystem is home to a rich variety of marine life, including sharks, barracudas, and rays. While these animals are a natural and important part of our healthy reef systems, sharing the water safely requires mindfulness and respect for their natural habitat. By taking a few simple precautions, we can ensure that our beaches remain safe and enjoyable for everyone.

General Tips for Safe Swimming and Shoreline Activities

• Swim with a Companion: Avoid swimming alone, especially in deep water or areas with low visibility, and let someone on shore know your plans.

• Stay Alert in the Water: Always remain aware of your surroundings. Swim in designated areas where possible and pay attention to any posted signs or flags.

• Avoid Swimming at Dawn and Dusk: Many marine predators, including sharks, are more active and feed during twilight hours. It is best to swim during bright daylight.

• Remove Shiny Objects: Barracudas and other predatory fish are naturally attracted to bright, reflective objects, which they can mistake for the flash of prey fish. Remove jewellery, watches, and metallic accessories before entering the water.

• Avoid Swimming Near Fishing Activity: Do not swim near docks, fishing boats, or areas where fishermen are cleaning fish, as bait and discarded scraps will naturally attract marine life.

If you Encounter Marine Life (e,g. Sharks, Barracuda, Rays) remember to:

• Stay calm and do not panic.

• Maintain a safe distance and avoid sudden movements.

• Do not attempt to touch, feed, or interact with the animal.

• Slowly and calmly make your way back to shore or to a boat.

• Exit the water safely and alert others nearby immediately.

This notice is a routine reminder of our shared responsibility to respect the ocean environment while prioritising personal safety.

The DECR will continue to monitor our coastal zones to ensure the safety of our communities. We thank the public for their ongoing cooperation in keeping our beaches beautiful and safe.

For more information, safety tips, or to report unusual marine wildlife activity, please contact the Department of Coastal Resources at (649) 338-4170 or via email at environment@gov.tc.