After the death last week of a snorkeler in Palawan, Philippines from a suspected Stonefish sting, we thought it may be a good idea to give some helpful tips of do’s and don’t’s whilst snorkelling.

Image of a rarely seen swimming Stonefish – Photo by Karl Marchant

In Palawan last week a snorkeler died after it was thought he stepped on a stonefish.

The stonefish is one of, if not the most venomous fish in the tropics. The video below explains how it kills.

So how to avoid this problem?

Well, the simple and most obvious answer is NEVER stand on the reef whilst snorkelling. Not only is this risky for the snorkeler but this is one of the biggest causes of reef destruction from humans.

If you are not a strong swimmer or an experienced snorkeler then always use a life jacket or floatation device so that if you do get tired you don’t need to put your feet on the reef.

The toxinologist in the video also explains that the stonefish spine can and would go through the sole of a wetsuit boot or beach shoes so these are unlikely to protect you.

If you are unlucky enough to get stung here is what you should do;

Clean the area of the sting with fresh water and then immediately immerse the wound in the hottest water that you can tolerate. Then get to a hospital as quickly as possible.

Stonefish incidents are not so common but being aware of the environment is key to avoiding such problems.

Dive and snorkel safely, exhibit good buoyancy control and don’t touch anything!