A mum has issued a warning after a close call during a trip to Formby beach.
Kate Lally said she had a close call with a number of jellyfish during a walk on Formby beach yesterday. The mum has previously opened up on her experiences with jellyfish at the popular visitor spot, sharing pictures of the nasty stings that made her think twice about going for a dip in the sea.
Kate, an ECHO reporter, described her previous experiences as an "attack" due to jellyfish swarming her as soon as she entered the water, Her right arm was stung first, then both upper legs all in a matter of minutes. The mum-of-one followed NHS guidance and the stings cleared days after the painful ordeal.
READ MORE: Mum 'laughed at' by doctors after rushing for help in middle of night
NHS guidance specifically states: "Do not use vinegar, and do not pee on the sting". Ice packs should also be avoided, and you shouldn't touch any spines in the sting with your bare hands, or cover or close the wound.
Talking about her latest brush with the creatures, Kate said: "After being stung so badly last summer I am always careful when I go now, but this one was almost at the bottom of the dune when you first enter the beach, nowhere near the sea. I didn't think I'd need to be on the lookout for them so far from the water and I very nearly stood on it.
"I was in agony last time and I dread to think what would happen if a little one stood on a jellyfish."
A spokesperson for the National Trust told the ECHO last summer: "During the summer months jellyfish can often be spotted in the sea around the UK. At Formby, you might spot varieties like the harmless barrel jellyfish, or the compass jellyfish that can give you a painful sting.
"Although most jellyfish found in the UK do not cause serious harm, we advise anyone stung by a jellyfish to seek medical attention. You can avoid jellyfish stings by staying alert for the sight of them in the water, as well as on the beach. We also recommend swimming shoes for anyone taking a dip in the sea."
A spokesperson for Sefton Council has previously given the ECHO similar advice, saying: “Blooms of jellyfish are quite a common occurrence along our coastline, which is why our Green Sefton team always advises people going for a paddle to wear sandals or wellies.
“Even when they are washed up, which happens frequently, these fascinating creatures can pack a sting, so people should avoid touching them."
What to do if you are stung according to NHS advice:
- rinse the affected area with seawater (not fresh water)
- remove any spines from the skin using tweezers or the edge of a bank card
- soak the area in very warm water (as hot as can be tolerated) for at least 30 minutes – use hot flannels or towels if you cannot soak it
- take painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen
You may also need medical assistance. If you are concerned, contact NHS 111.
Receive our weekly Sefton Live newsletter and breaking news email alerts by signing up here.
