Crikey.....it is happening in Double Bay.
Secretary
Over the St Valentine's weekend the DBSC field hospital under the leadership of Sister Roach dealt with three cases of people who had stepped on stingrays.
The harbour beaches currently have very large numbers of stingrays in shallow water , often partially buried in sand. If stepped on, the barb can easily penetrate a neoprene boot.
All sailors should be aware of the danger, and be aware of the risk when launching or returning to the beach. Sailors going out when other people aren't present should take particular care.
If you are affected the pain is apparently severe.
The wound should be cleaned and the foot should be placed in a bucket of hot water ( as hot as can be borne ) as soon as possible. and kept in the water until the pain eases. The wound then should be treated with an antiseptic( something like betadine) and bandaged. If the barb breaks off and is still in the wound, then you need to get medical attention as soon as possible. If you have a reaction to the toxin then again seek medical attention as soon as possible (Including,if the response is severe, calling an ambulance).
Speaking from his lair in the Emergency Department at Vinnies, our media superstar, da Dr G, commented:
"Stingrays are becoming a bigger problem than roided, over enthusiastic bouncers at the 'Cross."