Won't swim in the ocean or walk in the woods alone

[cantdrv55]

Basically because I'm afraid of the animals that live in those environments that can eat me.

Jaws scared the crap out of me and since then I've not gone swimming in the ocean in waters deeper than chest high. I figure if a shark is around, I may be able to get to shallower waters fast enough so it can't get me.

I haven't gone hiking or mtn biking in the woods alone since a biker in NorCal was eaten by a cougar. The guy was taller than I but theory was that he may have been croutched at the time tending to his equipment when the cat attacked. If a mtn lion wants you, I don't think you will escape unscathed.

The chances of running into a shark or cougar may be slim but I'm portly and juicy so therefore pretty good eating. Why ring the dinner bell, right? Or am I being extremely paranoid?

[Nostril Cheese]

Ever hear of bacteria?

[cantdrv55]

Hand sanitizer

[ledhedsymbols]

I'm more worried about two legged predators than four legged or swimming predators.

[livi]

What are the odds compared to a traffic accident?

[dewolf]

Dude you should live here!!

[widgeon13]

You wouldn't like living where I live. Living in a remote area, I'm more concerned about the elements than critters. No cell coverage, hospital an hour away.

I've never heard of someone up here being attacked by an animal although it could happen (getting between a mother and her bear cubs) but lots of people get lost in the woods and some don't get found in time.

I think it's much safer than living in the city though.

[zelrik911]

We live in Australia where there lots of man-eating sharks and crocodiles.

But the likelihood &/or probability of being devoured by one of those is far far less than the chance of being struck by lightning.
I presume, in the US, it would be the same odds?

As a semi-regular visitor to your country (which we love) I am far more scared when I innocently wander unarmed into the wrong parts of NY or Washington than I am of swimming in the ocean or trekking in the woods.

[gchappel]

Wow, I would think you have better things to worry about- less than 100 shark attacks a year- in the world. 90 people die in auto accidents in the US alone- each day.
By the way the majority of shark attacks occur in shallow water, less than 5 feet. Why? That is where all the people are
Gary

[Rick V]

I don't swim in the ocean but just because I am not a fan of salt water. As for the woods, I always carry my .45. I have come across bears and one wild cat over the years, and they are just as scared of you as you are of them.
Seriously, there are more things to worry about in life, go enjoy what the environment offers you.

[onewhippedpuppy]

Originally Posted by ledhedsymbols

I'm more worried about two legged predators than four legged or swimming predators.

Same here. Life is better when I'm outside, preferably a long ways away from civilization.

[Porsche-O-Phile]

I'm more worried about humans. They're far more violent, unpredictable and irrational.

[Jrboulder]

I've had some very strange run ins while camping in the woods... And they've all been with people. I've come pretty close to a couple bears and a mountain lion but it wasnt a huge concern.

I've dove with sharks. I'm much more scared of something man made killing me while diving.

[livi]

oh, and don´t forget Bigfoot. Thats a scary motha.

[oldE]

Still, it is hard to overcome a phobia, which is by definition, an irrational fear.
If swiming in the ocean or hiking is done for pleasure, and your phobia takes the enjoyment out of it; why would you do it?

Some might be driven to master their fear. If that is your goal, best of luck. Otherwise, you won't die from the lack of doing either.

Best
Les

[flatbutt]

in my backyard but they like berries and fish mostly.....mostly

[yetibone]

Urban areas give me anxiety. Might fall into an open manhole, broken storm drain, or a sinkhole caused by a hundred year old water main that busted last week. I might get hit by a car, a box truck, a bus, a thief, panhandler, a flower pot from a 100th floor window, a lead projectile, or I could have my pockets picked without my knowing it, have my car stolen, burglarized, vandalized, or towed for parking in the wrong place if I could even find any place to park.

At least being scared in the woods is simpler than being scared in the city. You're not the target of as many adversaries.

[recycled sixtie]

Originally Posted by flatbutt

in my backyard but they like berries and fish mostly.....mostly

Great pic flatbutt!.
I will take the risk of walking in the bush. Very unlikely to get attacked by bear or cougar. I carry bear spray but would prefer a handgun but not legal here.

It is worth it to see the excellent mountain scenery and it is just a 4 hour drive west of here. It is natural to have fear of bears. Otherwise if you don't have fear a person would try petting them which would be stupid of course.

I have read stories of early pioneers in the bush occasionally running into a bear, bear slashes a man, man bleeds to death. Not so much anymore but occasional incident where emaciated black bear comes out of bush, attacks woman, woman dies. Black bears are more afraid of people. Grizzly bears can be more aggressive but I don't see them too often.

I must admit I don't like sleeping in a tent. Definitely don't get a good sleep in the mountains. Do more day hiking now, no tent, no sleeping bag but that has its risks but I will take the risks anyway. No I would not like your snakes and spiders down south. Have a great day. G

[creaturecat]

I take my chances in the woods.
No ocean swimming for me.

[Rusty914s]

Even creating this thread put you at risk. Fairly sure that people have been electrocuted by their computer, slipped in the shower and died, etc.

Have you considered moving into a bubble?