UK Beachgoers Warned To Look Out For Britain’s Most Toxic Fish

When most of us go to the beach, a dip in the sea is a must. However, we probably see the ocean as like a giant swimming pool and we’re just wading in.

Many of us might forget that we’re actually stepping into another world full of wild animals. But every so often, we get a rude awakening that the ocean isn’t as peaceful and serene as it seems.

For beachgoers in the UK, there is now a warning regarding a very toxic fish.

In fact, a sting from this fish is said to be so painful that it has been compared to being “as bad a childbirth.” As the RNLI reports, the weever fish is one that burrows into the sand during warm weather. It is most dangerous especially at low tide when their poisonous dorsal spines are sticking out of the sand.

As Wild Swim Wales stated in a Facebook post, “If you step on one, you’ll know about it! It’s said to be as bad as childbirth!”

The warning of the weever fish coincides with the record-breaking temperatures that the UK has been experiencing. With the increase of people headed to the beach to cool off, it poses a higher risk of getting stung.

But there are ways to avoid this. The weever fish are sand-colored, so spotting them in the sand is a little difficult. But, if you wear something on your feet, you lower your risk of stepping on one. Furthermore, it is also advised that you shuffle or stamp the sand in order to scare off any weever fish in the area.

However, if you do happen to accidentally step on one, there are telltale signs that it’s a weever fish sting. Some of the signs include puncture marks, swelling at the injury sight, and red skin. If you do step on a weever fish, it is important to draw out the poison.

It is advised that you submerge your foot in the warmest water you can possibly stand, and then soak it for 30 minutes. If that is not making a difference, then you should call 999. Most lifeguard stations should have facilities to help if you step on a weever fish.

Hopefully with a little luck and precaution, you can avoid the pain. Have you ever heard of a weever fish before? Have you ever stepped on one? Let us know!