Aquatic life

Weeds

Weeds, grass and kelp are not usually a menace to swimmers. However, an inexperienced swimmer who swims into a patch of weeds could become entangled. If the swimmer then tries to thrash free, the weeds could wrap securely around the arms and legs. Slow, gentle shaking and withdrawing movements will clear them.

Jellyfish and Portuguese Men-of-War

The tentacles of these nearly clear animals maycause reactions ranging from a mild sting to shock, nausea or trouble breathing. Swimmers should avoid these aquatic creatures in the water and on the beach.

Coral

Coral can cause multiple cuts. These cuts require thorough cleaning and possibly medical attention. Avoid swimming in areas where coral may cause a problem.

Cone Shells

The cone shell is a type of mollusk related to the snail. It can puncture the skin and inject venom through the wound. Cone shell poisoning can cause numbness and tingling about the nose and mouth, paralysis and even death. Wounds from cone shells need medical attention immediately. Swimmers should avoid picking these shells up from the bottom of the ocean.

Stingrays

Stingrays do not normally attack people but will protect themselves if stepped on by puncturing a person’s skin and inject venom from the barbed spines at the base of their tail. Symptoms of such wounds include shock, vomiting, diarrhea and muscular paralysis. Wounds from stingrays need medical attention. When entering the water, swimmers should shuffle their feet. This will cause stingrays to swim out of the area.

Leeches

Leeches are more of a nuisance than a danger. Leeches are found in freshwater areas, particularly in murky, muddy water.

Predators

Sharks, barracuda, moray eels and other predators can produce severe bite wounds. The best protection is to swim in areas where there are no predators and in a supervised area where someone is on the lookout for them.

Snakes

Snakes normally avoid people. Swimmers should not try to corner or chase a snake, and they should always check carefully for snakes under a boat before moving it or turning it over.

Sea Urchins

Sea urchins, found in the ocean, are covered with sharp brittle spines. If handled or stepped on, the spines can puncture a person's hand or foot and can be quite painful. Some species are also poisonous. Swimmers should not pick up sea urchins and should be careful not to step on them.

What to Do if You Encounter an Aquatic Animal

If you come across an aquatic animal in or out of the water and you suspect it could be harmful, you should:

• Leave it alone. Do not touch it. Remember you are in their environment.
• Move away slowly.
• Note its exact location and tell the lifeguard or other authority.

How to Prevent Stings and Bites

Your best defense against stings and bites is to learn about aquatic animals and their habitats. If you can recognize the dangerous ones and you know where they live, you will know what to stay away from.

If you are bitten or stung by an aquatic animal, call for help immediately and then carefully wash the wound while you wait for medical assistance. (You should always find out where you can get help and medical help before you go swimming.)