6 days ago
Brits heading to the beach warned of poisonous creature hiding under the sand
A first aid expert has warned beachgoers to watch out for weever fish which bury themselves in shallow sand - and are more common during the warmer months
As temperatures rocket this week, countless Brits will be flocking to the seaside, but they're being cautioned about a poisonous creature hiding under the sand.
Now that temperatures are rising - finally - again during the last weeks of summer, many of us will be tempted to spend a day at the beach to soak up all the sunshine. However, those looking to cool off in the salty seawater should now be careful to avoid a painful injury.
A first aid specialist has alerted beach visitors to be vigilant for weever fish, which conceal themselves in shallow sandy areas. They can be spotted along UK beaches and become more prevalent in hot weather. In other similar news, a warning to Brit tourists planning all-inclusive holidays to Spain.
Weever fish are sand-coloured and possess inch-long dorsal spines that can pierce anyone who treads on them. These spines can deliver an agonising sting to their unfortunate victim, destroying their seaside excursion.
Sarah Jefferies, a first aid trainer at Emergency First Aid at Work Course, explained: "Weever fish are small, but the pain they cause is intense. If you're walking barefoot through shallow water and suddenly feel a sharp sting, it's likely you've stepped on one. The venom can cause swelling, burning sensations, and in some cases, nausea or dizziness."
She advises those who are stung to do the following:
Wash the affected area in hot water (as hot as can be tolerated) for 15–30 minutes. This neutralises the venom and relieves pain.
Rinse with seawater and then remove any visible spines carefully with tweezers or a credit card.
Take ibuprofen or paracetamol to manage pain, and ensure your tetanus vaccinations are up to date.
However, weever fish aren't the sole hazard beachgoers must be aware of, reports the Manchester Evening News. Coastal visitors are also encouraged to remain alert for jellyfish, jagged shells or rubbish when in the water or strolling across the sand.
Rip currents and tides pose an enormous threat when bathing in the sea, particularly on unmonitored beaches. Folks relishing a day out at the beach should also be on high alert for sunstroke and dehydration, particularly when it comes to children and the elderly.
But, don't worry - people can still swim in the sea, and will just have to be careful. With temperatures reaching as high as the 31 °C mark, for those who have run out of annual leave days, what better way to enjoy a day off down the coastline and have a nice swim in the ocean?
