How To Safely Swim with Piranhas

Piranhas have earned their reputation as vicious fish. It can be dangerous to swim with piranhas, even if it sounds like fun. If you must attempt to swim with piranhas, make sure that you know how to safely do it before even thinking about trying it. These fish, found in the Amazon, can be very dangerous. If you’re entering waters where there is even a chance of finding piranhas, make sure that you know how to be in the water safely. Be aware that even if you know what you are doing, swimming with piranhas is risky.

1. Know where piranhas may be found. First, understand where piranhas may be swimming. They are freshwater fish found in South America. They are usually found in slow-moving streams or lakes, not in fast rivers. They are found in warmer waters, as they do not like very cold water. However, especially if food supplies are low, they might be found outside their normal territory.
2. Do not go near hungry piranhas. During the dry season, piranhas’ food supply is usually at its lowest. These hungry fish may be desperate, and they may be willing to attack animals much larger than themselves. If you must enter the water during this time, wait until it is dark. Piranhas usually hunt during daylight hours, sleeping at night. However, piranhas are not usually the only predator in Amazonian waters. Keep in mind that other, more dangerous, animals in the same area may be active at night.
3. Do not allow blood into the water. If you are bleeding, piranhas will be able to detect the blood. They are more likely to attack a large animal if they believe it to be wounded and weak. If you have an open wound, stay out of the water. If entering the water becomes necessary, wrap your wound tightly and try to keep it above water.
4. Avoid creating a commotion. Cross the water as quickly as you can. Do not thrash around or create a lot of motion, which can attract piranhas. Swim or walk across in fluid motions, and do not linger in the water.
5. Create a diversion. To draw piranhas away from your location, toss some raw meat in the water, downstream from the location where you intend to cross. However, be aware that piranhas can devour the meat in a matter of seconds or minutes, and they will then be looking for more. Be sure to cross quickly, while they are still occupied.

Many people have heard of piranhas’ razor-sharp teeth. Particularly if food is scarce, they will attack anything that moves in their territory. A group of hungry piranhas can cause serious injury, and piranhas are not usually the only predator inhabiting the water. If you find yourself near piranha-infested waters, you may want to consult a local guide for information on the dangers lurking in the water.