Multiple tourists stung by stingrays in Mazatlan over the weekend, How to prevent stings

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The long weekend generated more medical attention among tourists, mainly on the beaches of the port

Mazatlán, Sinaloa.- At least ten medical care were provided during this long weekend, which were registered in the beach area, and some corresponded to stingrays, reported Eloy Ruiz Gastélum 

The Civil Protection coordinator pointed out that the actions were provided mainly by elements of the Aquatic Squad 

“Commonly the incidents presented in this long weekend were in the beach area, specifically they were medical care provided by the Aquatic Squad, we are talking about an approximate ten medical care that they gave during the long weekend, where the highest incidence was due to stingrays, I’m talking about those ten, four were of that nature. ” 

Regarding the operations in the businesses of the coastal and tourist strip, as part of the sanitary measures, Ruiz Gastélum pointed out that they checked 52 establishments they visited, although only 9 sanctions were lifted, for permits and other administrative issues, because with the program of the new normal everyone is fulfilling in the port. 

“If it is a commitment that the businessman has, it is a commitment that they acquired a couple of months ago, where the tourist reopening of the city took place, initially if they were a little reluctant to attend abroad and they understood it and We understood that if we add efforts, things are better for everyone ”. 

However, the coordinator of Civil Protection in the port said that the measures and revisions will prevail with the greater force given the proximity of the Easter holiday period. 

HOW TO AVOID BEING STUNG BY A STINGRAY

You don’t want to step on a stingray–the result could be a painful sting. In order to prevent this it is important to do the “Stingray Shuffle” when entering the water 

By shuffling your feet across the sandy bottom you can alert the stingray of your presence, they will uncover themselves and swim away. Stingrays don’t want to be stepped on anymore than you want to be stung!

How does one do the “Stingray Shuffle” you might ask? It doesn’t require any fancy dance moves

Do the Stingray Shuffle When Entering the Pacific waters of Panama

Here are some simple instructions to help you master the “Stingray Shuffle”

• Enter the water naturally until it covers the top of your feet.

• Without lifting your feet from the sandy bottom, slide or shuffle them forward one at a time. Do this until you reach your destination in the water.

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What should you do if you happen to step on a stingray and get stung?

Victims of stingray stings should seek medical attention. Head to the lifeguard stand when possible. If there isn’t one available try a nearby home, hotel or restaurant.

First aid for stingray stings involves:

• Flushing the wound with fresh water if possible.

• Soaking the affected area in hot water (as hot as can be tolerated without causing burns). The heat will offer immediate pain relief.  This can be done for 1-2 hours. Most lifeguard stands have buckets and hot water on hand for stingray accidents.

• Although it is rare for a stingray to leave part of a barb behind, head to the emergency room. Do not attempt to remove it yourself.

If the victim shows any signs of an allergic reaction: difficulty breathing, tightness in the throat, itching, nausea, fast pulse, dizziness, or loss of consciousness – DIAL 911.

Source: lineadirectaportal.com, mustdo.com

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