ORLEANS, Mass. — March 14, 2013 — The towns along the Cape's Atlantic coastline are still figuring out how the public should report possible great white shark sightings this summer.
But they have basically agreed on a set of standardized warning signs and a shark picture book for lifeguards and rangers, and are working on an information brochure to be available at public beaches.
At a meeting in Orleans on Wednesday, 10 people representing towns and the Cape Cod National Seashore inspected two beach sign prototypes and a "Shark Information Handbook," with pictures, all developed by the Seashore for the region's ocean beaches.
The goal is to help visitors better understand the dangers of swimming in the ocean — and not just great white sharks. The signs warn against riptides and dangerous currents, and also outline beach regulations, ways to protect natural resources such as dunes, staying hydrated and avoiding sunburn.
The emphasis is on eye-catching display, adopting an advisory tone, making the rules relevant to each town and reducing the overall number of signs on the beaches, based on comments made at the meeting.
"What do you think of the shark?" Seashore Head Ranger Leslie Reynolds said about the blue shark image on the largest sign.
The Seashore will post 36-by-24-inch framed signs at its six swimming beaches along the ocean. Sturdy framing and posts will help protect the Seashore's investment of about $4,000, for six signs, from theft.
Read the full story at the Cape Cod Times