Weaver fish warning after spate of stings

RNLI lifeguards patrolling Ceredigion beaches are advising people to be aware of weaver fish, after almost twenty people were stung last week.

Weaver fish are commonly found on sandy beaches and most stings are received at low tide.

Elin Jones, RNLI Area Lifeguard Supervisor in Ceredigion, says:

"The lifeguards deal with weaver fish stings on a daily basis, particularly at low tide. If anyone receives a sting, we advise that they visit a lifeguard beach unit and seek medical attention. We recommend anyone paddling at low tide to have some kind of footwear on just in case."

The recommended treatment for weaver fish stings is to soak the affected area in water as hot as is comfortable for at least 20-30 minutes or until the pain eases. Test the water first so as not to scald the person who has been stung,

Ceredigion County Council currently funds the lifeguards, while the extensive training and equipment needed is provided by the RNLI. It costs the charity an average of £1,000 each year to train and equip each lifeguard.

Beaches in Ceredigion currently being patrolled by the charity’s lifeguards include Aberporth, Tresaith, Llangrannog, New Quay, Aberystwyth North and South, Clarach and Borth.