effect size that could be reliably detected was ∼15%, which for the first time provides information about the effect size that a deterrent study can reliably detect. Shark attacks involving Shark Shield Technology There have been three known fatalities involving Shark Shield Technology; Paul Buckland (2002), Peter Clarkson (2011) and Garry Johnson (2020). Paul Buckland was wearing the Shark POD device which was the first version of the product developed in South Africa. The coroner concluded that the device was incorrectly worn and made the following recommendation; “I therefore recommend, pursuant to Section 25(2) of the Coroners Act, that commercial and recreational divers, when operating in waters where there is a risk of the presence of sharks, should wear a shark repellent device of the ‘Shark Pod’ or ‘Shark Shield’ type, provided that the equipment should be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, and should be turned on for the entire duration of time in the water.” Peter Clarkson always wore a shark shield, which was confirmed by the presence of small floats from the tail of the device on the surface of water after the attack. In the coroners findings the main reference to Shark Shield Technology was: “Mr. Clarkson always wore a Shark Shield which he attached to his belt. It is a battery operated device which can be switched on and off and is designed to repel any sharks as they approach. Mr. Rodd said that sometimes Mr. Clarkson would turn the Shark Shield off when he was on the bottom but most of the time he would switch it on when he entered the water and then switch it off again when he got to the surface. Mr. Rodd did not know whether Mr Clarkson had the Shark Shield turned on at the time of the incident that occurred on 17 February 2011.” Garry Johnson was wearing a FREEDOM7 device at the time of the shark attack. It is likely that the device was temporary turned off to reduce the risk of a shock whilst Johnson was securing a line to a rock on the sea floor. Unfortunately, in the brief moments around this time when the device was turned off, Johnson was attacked and killed by a Great White shark. Further reading See also Outline of sharks Shark attack Shark attack prevention Shark repellent Shark net Shark barrier Shark proof cage References External links