Q: Hello, my family just returned from a trip to the Keys and while there, we went on a snorkeling trip to Looe Key. The underwater scenery was great, and we all enjoyed it very much. We saw beautiful coral formations and lots of beautiful fish. It is great that the area is protected so people will be able to enjoy its beauty for generations to come. One thing of concern: We did see 2 or 3 sharks, mostly small, but one was fairly large, and we also saw several barracuda. Is there any record of bites in the area? With the number of divers in the water we did not feel particularly threatened, but I would like to know if we were in an unsafe situation -- Thanks, Jon

A: Thanks for your question, Jon. Shark attacks in Florida and in general have been in the media spotlight lately, especially since the tragic incident of a shark tearing off the arm of 8-year-old Jessie Arbogast in Pensacola Beach at Gulf Islands National Seashore, which made national news.

There have been shark attacks in the Keys. In 1995, a diver is believed to have died in the Keys after a shark attack, but some investigators think it's possible he died beforehand. Still, shark attacks are rare, and deaths from the attacks are even more rare.

The best source of information on Florida sharks and shark attacks is the International Shark Attack Files (ISAF) based at the University of Florida. Not only does this site provide statistics and maps on shark attacks around the world (Florida attacks accounted for 34 out of the 51 U.S. attacks in 2000 -- and Monroe County where the Keys are was the site of 3 attacks last year), but it also provides a lot of information on understanding sharks. (Note to readers: Please don't use the Q&A to ask us whether there have been shark attacks in a specific area in Florida. We don't keep track of shark attacks, but the ISAF does, so please visit that Web site instead as mentioned above.)

You and your family were probably safe even though you saw sharks and barracuda. The ISAF shows that from 1959 through 1990, there have been way more deaths caused by lightning strikes (313) than by shark attacks (4) in Florida -- and the same is true for mere injuries. However, as one EcoFlorida reader pointed out, more people are exposed to lightning in Florida than they are exposed to sharks. So you do have to consider the risks in any activity you take part in.

Like with alligators, it's best to keep your distance from sharks when you are aware of them. And it's important to never harass or feed any wildlife -- especially those that can take someone's life.

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