We have been lucky enough to enjoy some really nice weather over the past number of weeks, and it’s offered us the perfect opportunity to spend family days on the beach.
A mum in Northern Ireland has reminded us, however, that we need to be extra careful when taking our little ones to the seaside.
Fiona Murphy Lagan has issued a warning to parents, after her daughter Maisie was left screaming with pain from the sting of a venomous Weever fish.
According to Fiona’s Facebook post, the family was on their way back to the car after a day of fun at Benone Beach, Co. Derry, when Maisie was struck with the pain.
Although the parents initially thought she may have stepped on glass, a trip to the lifeguard’s station confirmed that she had been stung by the barb of a Weever.
Fiona explained that Weever fish – which bury themselves in the sand, and then strike out with their poisonous barb – are known as ‘Britain’s most poisonous fish’.
While Maisie was treated by the lifeguard for her sting, the scary incident has opened Fiona’s eyes to the hidden dangers of the sea.
“From now on, I’m personally going to have either wee Croc shoes or plastic sandals on my kids,” she admitted, before asking Facebook users to share her message and raise awareness among other parents.
