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Shark bites or “attacks” – as they are often referred to by mainstream publications – are often hyperbolized and made to sound as frequent occurrences. In fact, in New York City, ten more times people are bitten by each other than sharks, worldwide.

Unfortunately, some experts are predicting that 2016 could be a record year for shark bites. "We should have more bites this year than last," George Burgess, director of the International Shark Attack File at the University of Florida, told Reuters bluntly.

Last year saw 98 shark bites, with six fatalities. But according to Burgess, 2016 will be even higher. The reason behind his prediction involves several factors. First (and arguably a good thing from a conservation point of view), some shark populations are rebounding from historic lows. And then there’s the fact that hotter-than-ever air temperatures are luring more people to cool off in the ocean.

We will take this prediction with a much-deserved grain of salt. Even if the numbers rise, it is important to remember the risk of being bitten is so very, very remote—and no excuse for sensationalism. But when those headlines start to pop up in the news this summer, consider sharing this with any friends that remain afraid: