Warning of venomous weever fish across Pembrokeshire beaches
Beachgoers are being urged to take extra caution following reports that venomous weever fish - otherwise known as 'the stinging nettles of the sea' - have been spotted in the shallows around Pembrokeshire's coast.
Beaches where people have already been stung over the last seven days include Broadhaven, Nolton Haven, Tenby, Newgale and Little Haven.
The fish, which can measure approximately 18 cm in length, lie buried in the sand, however their spiny backs can puncture the skin, causing intense pain which can spread throughout the entire arm or leg. While the sting isn't poisonous, it can cause intense pain and can result in extreme swelling to the affected area which can last for several days.
Dunking the limb in extremely hot water for between 10 and 15 minutes helps to break down the toxins, but the water needs to be as hot as the casualty can withstand. If there are any longer-lasting or more serious symptoms, or if the pain is spreading through the body, you should seek medical advice.
People are now being advised to wear beach shoes with rubber soles to protect their feet from being stung and also to shuffle their feet at the water’s edge in order to disturb the fish and make them swim away.
Warning of venomous weever fish across Pembrokeshire beaches
Beachgoers are being urged to take extra caution following reports that venomous weever fish - otherwise known as 'the stinging nettles of the sea' - have been spotted in the shallows around Pembrokeshire's coast.
Beaches where people have already been stung over the last seven days include Broadhaven, Nolton Haven, Tenby, Newgale and Little Haven.
The fish, which can measure approximately 18 cm in length, lie buried in the sand, however their spiny backs can puncture the skin, causing intense pain which can spread throughout the entire arm or leg. While the sting isn't poisonous, it can cause intense pain and can result in extreme swelling to the affected area which can last for several days.
Dunking the limb in extremely hot water for between 10 and 15 minutes helps to break down the toxins, but the water needs to be as hot as the casualty can withstand. If there are any longer-lasting or more serious symptoms, or if the pain is spreading through the body, you should seek medical advice.
People are now being advised to wear beach shoes with rubber soles to protect their feet from being stung and also to shuffle their feet at the water’s edge in order to disturb the fish and make them swim away.
Weever fish appear from June to October.