Despite their fierce reputation, sharks rarely bite humans. According to the International Shark Attack File (ISAF), your chances of an unprovoked shark bite in U.S. waters are about 1 in 11.5 million—and the odds of a fatal attack are even lower.

Now contrast that with this: New York City emergency rooms reportedly treat around 1,600 human bite injuries each year. That stat, though more amusing than scientific, puts things in perspective. Statistically speaking, you're far more likely to be bitten by a fellow human in Manhattan than by a shark off Miami Beach.

Shark attacks make headlines, but the real risk is remarkably small. You’re more likely to be struck by lightning, hurt by fireworks, ladders or even injured by your toilet than meet a toothy fate in the sea.