Shark sightings are common each summer from coast to coast — and though attacks are rare, they do happen.In August, shark activity begins to ramp up as they migrate and feed along the way, often bringing different species close to shore, according to experts.Dr.Chris Lowe, professor of marine biology and director of the Shark Lab at California State University, Long Beach (CSULB), confirmed there has been an increase in white shark activity so far this year.SHARK SIGHTINGS SPIKE NEAR AMERICA'S BEACHES AS JULY 4 CROWDS HEAD TO SHORE FOR WEEKEND"We expect by August, September or October to see even more sharks off the Southern California coast," he told Fox News Digital.Even in waters where sharks are frequently found, human encounters rarely lead to bites, experts say.
(iStock)Wyatt Wernath, national spokesperson for the American Lifeguard Association and a retired ocean rescue chief based in Cocoa Beach, Florida, said they've seen typical numbers for this time of year, although there have been "a couple little nibbles" where people were "bit on the heels or the toes."For those swimming or surfing in the ocean, the experts shared the following six tips to avoid a dangerous shark encounter.Before visiting a new beach, experts advise locating lifeguards and checking for shark sightings, rip currents, jellyfish and other hazards.10-FOOT GREAT WHITE SHARK SPOTTED SWIMMING DANGEROUSLY CLOSE TO YOUNG PEOPLEIt's important to recognize and understand the flag systems on the beach that can signal certain conditions, Wernath noted.Red flags typically indicate high hazard, yellow flags mean heed caution and green flags mean low hazard.Red flags typically indicate high hazard, yellow flags mean heed caution and green flags mean low hazard.
(Spencer Platt/Getty Images)A purple or blue flag indicates the presence of marine life.Combination red and blue flags signal hazardous marine life, such as a shark or dangerous jellyfish."If you can prepare yourself by knowing before you...