UK Beachgoers Warned Not To Walk Barefoot On Sand This Summer

Temperatures are set to skyrocket again this week as the UK enters its fourth heatwave of the year – a change which is likely to herald plenty of trips to the beach. But alongside the risk of sun damage, The Wildlife Trusts said that another danger might be lurking in the sand, hidden from sight. The “venomous” weever fish, which appears from June to as late as October, prefers warmer water, making the summer months especially dangerous. In fact, the common threat’s venom can be so painful and the creature itself so well-hidden that the East Riding of Yorkshire Council has urged people to “not walk barefoot on the sands during the weever fish season”. What is a weever fish?The lesser and greater weever fish are some of “the only venomous fish to be found in British waters,” The Wildlife Trusts explained.They don’t spend most of their time in the open water. Instead, they bury themselves in sand; their pale yellow, speckled appearance acts as a near-perfect camouflage. But sometimes, when the fish senses danger, their black, poisonous dorsal fin darts out of their sandy home, injecting the perceived threat with toxins. This poison can create what some who have experienced it describe as “excruciating” pain. Where are weever fish usually found in the UK? They’re common across Britain but are seen more often in the south and the south west.They usually lurk in shallow waters but can remain in sand that would normally be covered in water at high tide, even when the water has ebbed away.How can I avoid being stung by a weever fish?Wearing beach shoes on the sand or when paddling in shallow waters is the best way to prevent stings.Padstow Sealife Safaris adds that “if you’re not wearing shoes and you’re walking through sand, then it’s a good idea to shuffle your feet” (the NHS also says this will help to warn sea creatures you’re coming).What should I do if I’m stung by a weever fish?If you can, go to the lifeguard to get some help. The NHS recommends rinsing the area with seawater before removing the stinger by brushing gently against it with the side of a bank card. Then soak the affected spot with water – “as hot as can be tolerated” – for half an hour. Take painkillers like ibuprofen or paracetamol as needed.Don’t urinate on the sting (this doesn’t work) and avoid touching the spine with your bare hands. Don’t apply ice packs or cold packs to the area. If the pain doesn’t go away or gets worse, or if you notice symptoms of an allergic reaction like difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, vomiting, or dizziness, seek immediate medical attention. Related...So THAT's Why UK Heatwaves Feel So Much Worse Than Other CountriesUK Holidaymakers Warned To Not Use Wheeled Suitcases This SummerUK Gardeners Urged To Avoid This Watering Mistake In A Heatwave

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