Full Breakdown
Federal Alerts and Education Boost Shark-Safety Efforts in the Gulf Coast
7/10/2026, 1:42:32 PM
New Federal Safeguards for Shark Attacks
In June 2024 President Donald Trump signed “Lulus Law,” a federal measure that authorizes emergency cell-phone alerts whenever a shark attack is reported. The law is intended to give beachgoers rapid warning and peace of mind. Local lifeguards complement the alerts with a flag system; a purple flag signals the presence of dangerous marine life in the water.
Gulfarium Shark Week and Public Education
During Shark Week at the Gulfarium in Okaloosa County, Florida, staff use the event to reshape public perception of sharks. The marine park showcases four species, including a nurse shark and a black-tip reef shark, and offers hands-on activities and educational programs aimed at highlighting sharks’ ecological role.
Data on Recent Shark Incidents
- Two shark bites were reported in the Florida Panhandle within a week, as noted by WEAR News.
- In 2024, Alabama teenager Lulu Gribbin survived a shark attack off Florida’s coast but lost her left hand and part of her right leg.
- A second woman was bitten approximately 90 minutes later, three miles from the first incident.
Official Statements from Gulfarium Curator
Chris Teem, curator of fish and reptiles at the Gulfarium, emphasized that sharks are essential to marine ecosystems and that attacks are rare. He noted that lifeguards advise the public to avoid approaching sharks and to stay aware of their surroundings. Teem also explained that the purple flag alerts swimmers to heightened risk.
Verbatim Quotes
- “There are over 500 different species of sharks, and half of those are only three foot in size or smaller,” — Chris Teem, curator
- “Without them, our whole entire fish population would begin to decline, diseases would spread,” — Chris Teem, curator
- “These guys are not necessarily out to be man-eaters, they're just out cruising, cleaning up the life forms and hunting.” — Chris Teem, curator
- “We never recommend that you approach these animals when you see them out in the wild, and you want to be paying attention to your surroundings,” — Chris Teem, curator
