Don't Underestimate Their Power

Stings from marine animals vary from annoying to life threatening. Cone Shells, sea wasps, Portugese man-o-war, sea snake, and other venomous creatures have killed swimmers and divers. Whether a sting can be lethal depends on the organism, the severity of the wound, and the victim's individual reaction.

As a Rescue Diver, this means:

1. Wear appropriate exposure suits and other protection.
2. Watch where you put your hands, feet, and watch where you swim.
3. If you don't recognize something, don't touch it, no mather how harmless it looks.
4. Heed posted warnings.