Shark attacks would seem like the most random encounter a person can ever get. With the threat only being on water, people brush the possibility off aside and throw caution to the waters. But shark attacks are real and they happen; just ask Glen Folkard, who was surfing south of Newcastle.

The 44-year old surfer was attacked by what is reportedly believed to be a bull shark while he was surfing at Redhead Beach, ABC News reported. With the dangers of a shark attack clear as their warning signs, what can people do to survive one?

Before getting into the details as to how to deal with a shark, why do shark attacks happen? What could be a gory encounter boils down to two things: one, the shark got provoked by either getting into contact with it, or two, the shark was merely curious and as awful as it may sound, the way they check something is by biting it.

So when a shark does become curious and decides to bite off the answers, be prepared. If there's one thing the movie "Jaws" has taught that aside from being mortally afraid of sharks, panicking is a sure way of getting bitten. So when facing a shark, remain calm - as there is no way of out swimming a shark, wikihow.com reported.

Next thing to remember is that whatever happens, focus on the enemy, the shark, at all times. Whether it retreats or goes away, it may just be looking for another way to sneak up on its target. Now after being calm and focused and the shark begins to either circle or zigzag his on his way, try to get into the best position defensively as it will start attacking.

The best position to be in is to have your back against something such as any solid obstruction as this will reduce the possible angles of attack.

With everything checked, it's time to fight as playing dead will amount to nothing. So hit the shark where it hurts, its sensitive areas: the nose, eyes, and gills, according to ArtofManliness.com. When trying to fend it off, bare fists are ok, but having an improvised weapon is better. Try to use anything - like goggles, a camera, rocks or even a stick - in sharp, quick jabs.

When the shark has been fended off and the opportunity comes up, get out of the water. No matter how brave someone is or no matter how prepared, they can never be really safe until they get back on land or on a boat. After getting back to safety, seek medical attention when needed as many of those who have been bitten by sharks die because of the loss of blood.