AN URGENT warning has been issued for thousands of people who are set to bask in the sun at the beaches in Ireland this week.
With the temperatures expected to reach the highs of 28C, heading to the beaches to catch some rays and soak in the cold water sounds like a dream.
Despite thousands of beachgoers set to reach the waters, a warning has been issued over a pesky fish that can pose a major pain risk.
The Weeverfish is common on beaches across the country that have sand, they are usually found in the warm, shallow water in the hours before and after low tide.
However, the fish is different compared to most fish as it doesn’t have a swim bladder, meaning they sink to the bottom as soon as they stop swimming.
And they are difficult to spot as they spend most of their time buried under the sand.
The poisonous fish have sharp spines containing venom on their dorsal fin.
So if you accidentally step on one before spotting it in time, you will be experiencing intense pain that will occur in the first two hours.
The pain will be immediate, resulting in swelling, numbness and warmth.
People who have accidentally stepped on the Weeverfish are urged to seek assistance from a lifeguard if available or call the National Poisons Information Centre of Ireland (NPIC) on 01 8092166.
They are encouraged to submerge the affected limb or wound in hot water, as hot as can be tolerated, for up to 90 minutes or until the pain eases.
As the sting can result in numbness, immerse the unaffected limb as well, which may prevent inadvertent scalding.
Avoid using cold applications, as they may worsen the discomfort.
Paracetamol can be considered to relieve pain if approved by the NPIC or doctors
PAIN KILLER ALERT
Care should be taken when pain relief is given that thermal burns do not occur due to the effects of the pain killer masking the temperature of the water used.
The affected site should be examined, and embedded spines should be removed.
Temperatures could hit 28C this weekend, with Ireland’s beaches expected to be packed as thousands flock to the seaside for a cooling dip.
Friday is currently forecast to be the hottest day of the week, with temperatures expected to blaze between 22C and 28C.
A “very warm or hot continental airmass” will feed up across Ireland with sunny conditions occurring widely.
The second hottest day of the week will be Thursday, another dry day for most with warm spells of sunshine.
Temperatures will reach highs of 21C to 26C in just light southwest or variable breezes.
