I don't want to destroy your illusion of safety but (1) There are many sharks in close along the Gulf Beaches. Take a helicopter ride (especially over Clearwater Beach), You might decide to stay dry period....lol!!!! (2) It's just as east to get hit by a shark in Calf deep water as it is in waist deep water.
A few simple rules to remember are:
(1) Stay out of the water when there are a lot of bait fish in the area.
(2) Avoid the water in the very early morning and the late evening. Sharks start coming into shallow water to feed in the evening and begin to go back into deeper water in the early morning. Let the sun get up a bit.
(3) Always be aware of what is going on around you. If suddenly you find yourself surrounded by a swarm of bait fish moving at about Mach 5, stop and look for any shadows that might indicate what is chasing them.
Remember that the Shark really isn't looking for you unless you are making sounds and erratic movements that would indicate that you might be a distressed sea creature (their favorite food). The most important thing of all is not to panic, PANIC KILLS!!!! Should you have an encounter with a shark, keep your eyes on it and slowly back out of the water.
I've taught many people to dive, snorkel, spearfish and MD. Dealing with the many things that can sting, bite, cut and eat you in the ocean and near it is always an important aspect as it will help you to enjoy your hobby more and keep you from becoming a victim.
Deepsix