Warning signs go up at beaches to deal with poisonous jellyfish
Cork County Council has created a series of warning signs which it plans to erect in areas where swarms are noticed. Council personnel have also been trained to deal with jellyfish washed up on beaches, as stings from tentacles can last for days. Some species even remain venomous after death.
The safety plans were outlined after Independent councillor Noel Collins asked what action were officials taking to protect the public from jellyfish, including the Portuguese man o’ war, whose venom has been known to kill.
He was told that, in addition to warning signs, swimmers and other beachgoers were being urged to exercise caution on beaches, following the massive infestation of jellyfish. The last sightings were just two weeks ago.
“We have a duty to warn people,” said Mr Collins. “I understand it was the largest invasion in the past 100 years. Some of them, such as the Portuguese man o’ war, can kill with their sting.”
The council also used social media to raise the issue.
Warning signs have been erected at a number of bathing areas in West Cork, and they contained information about what to do if people came in contact with them.
Council staff have also been issued with advice on how to deal with them, it emerged. Fianna Fáil councillor Aaron O’Sullivan said he witnessed four council staff disposing of hundreds of jellyfish in East Cork.
Fianna Fáil councillor Christopher O’Sullivan, noting council staff had “reacted speedily” in West Cork, said dog walkers should be warned about potential dangers to pets.
Council chief executive Tim Lucey said County Hall will continue to raise public awareness about the issue.
