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new rules for swimming - Cape Cod

The Cape Code department of health and safety has announced an interesting policy for salt water bathing for the coming season: It has been determined that human foot odor in the sea can attract seals, which in turn attract white sharks. Therefore, any bathers are now required to step into a sterilizing foot bath before entering the water. Basins with solution will be set up at all public beaches.

The new policy announced by the Cape Cod Department of Health and Safety is quite an interesting and unique approach to mitigating the risk of shark encounters at public beaches. According to the new rules, bathers are now required to step into a sterilizing foot bath before entering the saltwater. This decision is based on research that human foot odor can attract seals, which in turn can attract white sharks to the area.

This precautionary measure aims to reduce the potential for shark sightings near beaches, especially during the summer months when seal populations and beachgoers are at their highest. The sterilizing foot baths will be set up at all public beaches, and bathers will be expected to step into the basins containing a sterilizing solution before heading into the water.

Some key points to note about this new policy:

  • Purpose: The main purpose is to neutralize any scents that might attract seals, which are known to be a primary food source for white sharks. By reducing this attraction, the risk of sharks being drawn closer to the beaches is minimized.
  • Implementation: Foot baths will be provided at designated points at public beaches. Beachgoers will be required to step into the solution before entering the water to ensure safety for both the swimmers and marine life.
  • Effectiveness: While the sterilizing foot baths may seem unconventional, the approach is part of a broader strategy to maintain safety without overstepping natural wildlife boundaries. It's based on research and aims to provide a balance between human activities and marine life conservation.

As this policy takes effect, it will be interesting to see how effective it proves to be. However, it certainly adds an extra layer of safety and precaution for beachgoers in Cape Cod, and it’s worth adhering to the new guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable time at the beach.

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