After divers and marine activity professionals in Egypt recorded a video documenting the appearance of the dangerous Mako shark near the El Gouna area north of Hurghada, which caused great panic on social media, the "Red Sea Nature Reserves" issued important instructions for citizens and divers.
The instructions from the Red Sea Nature Reserves, published in Circular No. 10 of 2024 on Sunday evening, directed towards officials and members of the Diving and Marine Activities Tourism Chamber in the Red Sea, emphasized the need to adhere to the previously established technical considerations and safety instructions concerning sharks.
The circular underscored the importance of following recognized safety protocols and avoiding any practices that could attract sharks or jeopardize the safety of tourists. Additionally, snorkeling activities in drift sites were prohibited, and activities must be conducted under appropriate weather conditions. Disposing of liquid sewage waste in the water around diving sites and marine activities is also forbidden. Moreover, observation towers at least 5 meters high above the water surface must be established for monitoring beaches, and a quick rescue boat must be available in front of every tourist village, ensuring all necessary first aid is provided.
The Red Sea Nature Reserves warned against swimming in open areas during early morning and sunset, advised against touching shiny objects while swimming, and urged individuals to exit the water promptly in case of injury or bleeding.
It is noted that there are two types of Mako sharks: the shortfin and longfin Makos. These sharks inhabit temperate waters and are abundant in the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans, as well as the Red Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. The Mako shark is among the fastest shark species, capable of reaching speeds of up to 74 kilometers per hour, earning it the nickname "the sea falcon."
The Red Sea Nature Reserves is set to review and adjust necessary measures regarding dangerous sharks in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, the governorate, the yacht tourism chamber, and all relevant authorities. Recently, divers and marine professionals in Egypt captured a video documenting the dangerous Mako shark near the El Gouna area north of Hurghada.
