Coastguard issues warning over tiny poisonous fish in sand on Welsh beaches

Porthcawl Coastguard has urged beachgoers to wear shoes on the beach after reports of tiny weever fish being found that can cause intense pain if stood on.

The coastguard issued the warning on social media after a member of the public reported spotting some of the fish, whose spines release pain-inducing toxins, at Rest Bay near Porthcawl.

The facebook post urges people to wear a pair of beach shoes or old trainers as “getting stung is really going to hurt”.

The warning advises those who have been stung to soak their feet in very warm water and to use tweezers to remove any spines that are imbedded in the foot as “they will continue to release toxins”.

A separate warning by Wild Swim Wales says: “These sand coloured pesky little critters like to bury themselves just under the sand and have 3 poisonous spines on their backs.

“Most commonly found on the waters edge at low tide but can be anywhere on the beach.

“If you step on one, you’ll know about it! It’s said to be as bad as childbirth!

The Pembrokeshire-based swimming group also advised people to pop something on your feet, or alternatively to “do the Weever Fish Shuffle”, which involves “lots of tiny stamping feet kind of steps to send vibrations to make them move out of your way”.

Wild Swim Wales add that if you do get stung, you should head to the nearest lifeguard who can help, and to seek medical attention if you think your reaction is serious.

(Lead image: RNLI)