I’ve just heard the sad news of another diving accident, this time likely involving a shark. The body of one diver has been recovered, while the other remains missing.
Incidents like this are a stark reminder of how unpredictable nature can be. Even with all our expensive gear, training, and best intentions, in the face of nature we are small and powerless.
Is the “Coconut vs. Shark” Saying True?
Whenever there’s a shark-related incident, someone inevitably brings up the famous coconut comparison. This saying traces back to a 1984 study in Papua New Guinea that looked into injuries caused by falling coconuts.
The media quickly gave it new life, claiming coconuts kill “150 people a year,” which is 15 times more than sharks. The problem? Such a number was never confirmed. It was more of an anecdote than solid data.
In reality, this statement is simply a myth — one that over time has been used to protect the image of sharks and promote diving as a safe activity.
The Facts About Shark Attacks
Let’s set the record straight. According to the International Shark Attack File, in 2024 there were 47 unprovoked shark attacks worldwide and only 4 fatalities.
Your lifetime risk of dying from a shark attack? About 1 in 4.3 million.
By comparison:
- In the US, drowning kills roughly 1 in 1,134 people each year.
- Car accidents take about 1 in 84 lives annually.
Suddenly, sharks don’t seem so scary anymore.
A Grim Comparison Closer to Home
Since we’re talking statistics, here’s one from Costa Rica that hits much closer to home. According to OIJ (Organismo de Investigación Judicial), one person is murdered every 10 hours in the country.
Which is why I often say — while we should respect nature, in reality we should probably fear humans more.
The Truth About White Tip Reef Sharks
The photo above shows me alongside a white tip reef shark, a species that is completely harmless and far more afraid of humans than we are of it.
Like most marine life, it simply wants to be left alone. If you’re lucky enough to encounter one underwater, you’ll find it’s an elegant, peaceful creature — a reminder that the ocean is full of beauty, not just danger.
Written by Peter Sawicki, an experienced strategist with a background spanning multiple industries, from private enterprises to government projects. Having worked across different countries and markets, I bring a global perspective and practical insights to every SEO strategy I design. As a diver and adventure seeker, I’ve learned to balance attention to detail with a drive to explore new solutions, a mix that shapes both my work and my life.
