LIFEGUARDS in South East Cornwall have set out to dispel some myths about weever fish.

While its sting can be extremely painful, the RNLI says that the risks associated with the tides, the waves and the effects of cold water are ‘much greater’ for those heading for the beach.

Whitsand Bay lifeguard Beau Gillett said: ‘Our lifeguards treat hundreds of weever fish stings each season. Other than some pain and discomfort, a weever fish sting is generally nothing to worry about. Over the years we’ve heard plenty of interesting ways to treat the sting, including – urinating on it, using vinegar and putting it in cold water. We’d recommend none of the above – stings should be treated by immersing the area in as hot a water as you can stand which will break down the protein based venom.

‘We always recommend you visit a lifeguarded beach, where we are on hand to give immediate treatment for weever fish stings.’