Lifeguards on Devon and Cornwall beaches have reported a noticeable rise in the number of jellyfish washing up on shore in recent days, leading to a reminder to beachgoers on what to do if they come across one.
The news tallies with a report by the Marine Conservation Society released this week showing that the recent spell of warm weather had seen a rapid increase in jellyfish blooms around the coast. Previously, not many were seen before June.
Steve Instance, RNLI lifeguard manager said: "If sighted, do not touch. If you are stung, please seek assistance from the RNLI lifeguards on duty.
"Treatment involves removing the tentacles by hand or by spraying with seawater, and immersion in or application of hot water to relieve the symptoms. In the majority of cases further medical treatment will not be necessary, but those with any complications or serious stings should be advised to seek further medical assistance."
Blue and compass jellyfish are particularly common in the South West but moon jellyfish have also been discovered nationwide.
