'Shark Week' host Forrest Galante explains why crushing beers in the ocean is a bad idea

It’s the most wonderful time of the year: "Shark Week."That annual stretch when Americans collectively gather around their TV sets to learn everything there is to know about the ocean’s apex predators and to ask ourselves why we are dumb enough to swim in the ocean in the first place.CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE FROM OUTKICKBut lucky for those of us who don’t want to end up the subject of a future "Shark Week" documentary, wildlife biologist, conservationist and TV host Forrest Galante has some simple advice.

Galante recently joined OutKick Outdoors to talk about shark attacks, shark behavior and his upcoming Discovery special, "Alien Sharks: Untamed America." And while he stressed that the chances of having a negative shark encounter are already extremely slim, he said beachgoers can make those odds even better by using some common sense."You know, the best thing you can do is educate yourself," Galante said.

"Think about where you're going. Learn what the species are."If you are looking for some blanket rules before your next beach trip, Galante offered a few."

Don't go in the water at dawn or dusk," Galante said.Sharks are crepuscular, meaning they are most active at dawn and dusk. That is when they are more likely to be feeding closer to shore, which is also exactly where people tend to be splashing around during summer vacation."

Don't swim near river mouths," Galante said. "That's when sharks are feeding."River mouths can attract baitfish and other food sources, which can also attract sharks.

If there is a place where sharks are naturally more likely to congregate, that is probably not the spot to float around with a drink in your hand and your guard down."Don't go swimming by yourself," Galante said.This is one of those tips that applies to pretty much every outdoor activity.

Hiking alone, boating alone, swimming alone — all of it adds risk.And Galante said there is another simple clue beachgoers should pay attention to."If you see no one on the beach, that's us