What to know about jellyfish stings and how RNLI lifeguards can help

Jellyfish are fairly common throughout the summer months in Scotland and it’s not unusual to spot them in blooms, either in the water or washed up along the coast. Moon jellyfish, which are translucent with four distinctive pinkish-purple spheres, are relatively harmless and have a mild sting whereas others, such as the large reddish Lion’s Mane jellyfish or Compass jellyfish, can cause painful stings.

How to tell if you’ve been stung
Stings can be painful and may cause redness, swelling or a stinging sensation. If this happens, let a lifeguard know straight away so they can keep an eye on you and provide first aid if needed.

What to do if you’re stung
Avoid rinsing with fresh water or any substances with alcohol as this can worsen the sting. Instead, use a card to gently scrape off any remaining tentacles, then head back into the sea between the RNLI’s red and yellow flags. The cold salt water will help to soothe the pain and deactivate any remaining stingers from releasing further venom.

If you start to feel unwell, or notice a rash or swelling, speak to a lifeguard immediately as it may be signs of an allergic reaction.

RNLI lifeguards are trained in casualty care and provide support for everything from jellyfish stings, BBQ burns and cuts, to more serious emergencies like suspected heart attacks, spinal injuries or anaphylactic shock.

Whether you need minor first aid or urgent help, don’t hesitate to ask - that’s what they’re there for.

ENDS

Notes to editors

· RNLI lifeguards are currently on duty at the following East Scotland beaches: Coldingham Bay, Silver Sands (Aberdour), Burntisland, Leven, Elie, St Andrews East Sands, St Andrews West Sands, and Broughty Ferry.

· Interviews with RNLI lifeguards can be arranged upon request.

RNLI media contacts

For more information, please contact:

Emma Lees, RNLI Communications Placement for Scotland, 07710 246 495, [email protected]

Natasha Rushby, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for Scotland, 07826 900639, [email protected]

Martin Macnamara, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for Scotland, 07920 365929, [email protected]

RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.

Learn more about the RNLI

For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, X, TikTok and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.

Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.