BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. — Some Brevard County beaches are experiencing closures because of concerns over shark packs.
The area is historically known for having shark encounters.
While some beach-goers showed concern Thursday, others said they'll take their chances
Lifeguards had a single red flag up, but that was because of rough surf.
If it changes to double red flags, everyone will be forced out of the water, which is something they've had to do the past few days after spotting sharks in the water.
Judging by the crowds--in and out of the water--surrounding the Cocoa Beach Pier, it might be hard to think that it’s the same area where sharks have been spotted the past two days. According to lifeguards, spinner sharks have been spotted close to 100 yards south of the pier, feeding on schools of small fish.
“I'll probably keep my eyes peeled. If I see one, I am gone,” said visitor Anthony Pinkerton.
The sharks have come so close, Brevard County Ocean Rescue lifeguards said they're forced to put up double red flags, and when that happens, everyone must get out of the water.
Lifeguards said they've spotted sharks off the Cocoa Beach Pier over the past few days, and they said every time that happens, they will set a 30 minute timer, pull everyone out of the water, and if a shark is seen again, they will reset that timer to make sure that everyone is safe.
“My experience has been if sharks attack, they are not looking for humans to bite, they are looking for fish to eat,” said visitor John Viera.
Cocoa Beach ranks No. 1 in the Sunshine State with the most unprovoked sharks bites, but that is still not deterring some beach-goers from getting in the water.
“It concerns me, but it's not going to stop me from going in the water,” said Lois Rimany.
“If you know they are in the area, you just have to be smart about it,” Viera said.
Lifeguards said if you do happen to spot a shark in the water, immediately get out and alert a lifeguard.