Reports of a poisonous fish that buries itself in the sands of shallow water and can sting people who accidentally stand on it whilst paddling in the sea, have been confirmed in the last few days.
Weaver Fish are found all around the coast of the United Kingdom during the summer in areas with warm shallow water and a sandy beach.
The fish, which grows to around 14cm in length, buries itself in the sand leaving only its head and black dorsal fin visible.
The sting from the dorsal fin is said to feel like a ‘sharp stab’ and is initially extremely painful but will not leave any permanent damage.
Bridlington, Filey, Hornsea and Withernsea have First Aid posts (April to September) manned by the RNLI Lifeguards.
At Filey it has been reported that a fisherman, who was shrimping in the shallower waters caught several Weaver Fish in his shrimp net – a sure sign that numbers are on the increase and are actively coming nearer to the shore.
To avoid the risk of being stung it is advisable to wear beach/jelly shoes when paddling.
The NHS advice says that Weaver fish stings are best treated with as hot water that the affected person can handle for at least 30 minutes, or use hot flannels or towels.
It is also advised if the spine is stuck in your foot that you pull it out with tweezers or the edge of a bank card – but do not touch the spine with bare hands.
