Red Cross Blogs

My crap holiday (2)

By Chris Jefferies
November 23, 2009 at 3:47 pm

This week, Pauline Vernon continues The Observer’s “My Crap Holiday” series (See my previous post).

Pauline tells a harrowing tale from Malasyia: After a culmination of unfortunate events, including red ant infested mattresses and room double bookings, she describes relaxing on “a beautiful empty beach” and enjoying “the warm gentle waters of the South China Sea”.

Unfortunately her idyllic paradise is soon shattered after an encounter with a stinging jellyfish. Ouch!

Stings from sea creatures can be serious. Although many species are not dangerous, some marine creatures can cause poisoning and extreme cases death from paralysis or a severe allergic reaction. If you find yourself stung by a sea creature then you should*:

• Sit or lie down. If you can, immerse the affected part in hot water (40 – 41 degrees Celsius) for at least ten minutes to relieve pain and swelling. Take care not to burn yourself!
• If hot water is not available, wash the area copiously with cold water.
• In the case of a Jellyfish string, you can pour vinegar or sea water over the area.
• If there is a severe reaction, or you are unsure, dial 999/112 for an ambulance. A severe reaction may cause signs and symptons such as wheezing or a blotchy red rash.

In any case, don’t delay in calling emergency help if you are unsure. Some beaches may be patrolled by lifeguards who will also be able to help you.

Remember different countries have different emergency numbers so you should make sure you find out how to call medical help before you travel.

You can read more first aid tips and watch videos on the British Red Cross website. Alternatively, find out about the range of first aid courses that you can undertake.

Do you have any bad holiday experiences?

*First aid advice taken from the first aid manual, 9th edition.

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Tags: allergic reaction, First aid, jellyfish stings, my crap holiday, sea creature stings

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This entry was posted on Monday, November 23rd, 2009 at 3:47 pm and is filed under First aid. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

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