Wicklow Swimmers Warned Of Weever Fish On Local Beaches

Weever Fish: Hard to spot but easy to feel, when it's too late!

Immediate intense, burning pain - nobody wants that do they?

Be warned, it's what you'll feel if you stand on a weever fish. No thanks!

If you're planning a bit of beach time in the coming days or weeks take note ... weever fish have been reported at Bray and Greystones. No need to panic, here's what you need to know:

Weever fish lie buried in shallow sandy waters, with only their eyes and venomous dorsal spines visible. They're difficult to see because they spend most of their time buried under the sand. If stepped on, their dark-tipped spines deliver a painful sting. To reduce the risk, wear beach shoes when paddling or walking in shallow water.

Handy tip - Dragging your feet in the sand alerts them to your presence, and they scarper. Your welcome!  

Bray Sea Swimmers recently posted an alert warning people of the presence of weever fish in the waters. The group also shared some useful advice from the National Poisons Information Centre (NPIC) -  trust us, it's worth taking on board.

If you have been stung by a weever fish, you should do the following:

• Seek assistance from a lifeguard, if available.
• Submerge the affected limb or wound in hot water, as hot as can be tolerated for up to 90 minutes or until pain is easing.
• As the sting can result in numbness, immerse the unaffected limb too, as this may prevent inadvertent scalding.
• Note: cold applications may worsen the discomfort.
• Paracetamol can be considered to relieve pain. Care should be taken when pain relief is given that thermal burns do not occur due to the effects of the pain killer masking the temperature of the water used.
• The puncture site should be examined and the embedded spines removed.
• Seek medical attention from a doctor as a tetanus and/or antibiotics may be required.

If you do stand on a weever fish, the pain is most intense in the first two hours and can result in swelling, numbness and warmth. For further advice call the NPIC on 01 8092166.