HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0522.014 2000-2002 Our testimony this morning will target specific areas to enhance and ensure
community awareness and education through recreation utilizing our aquatic environ-
ment.
To safely implemenfi the following projected goals, additional safety equipment
is necessary.
Pr.~ re n ~fuc~~iQn would entail the following:
1. American Red Cross "Learn-to-Swim" levels (see attached}.
2. Lifeguarding (Pool/Beach Services): Guard Start, Youth Program.
3. Snorkeling (Youth/Adults).
4. Marine Life: Shoreline Environment (booklet attached).
Dragon Boat Race/Canoe Paddling: Community Input.
6. Surfing/Boogie Boarding (see attached).
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Attachmenfi: AMERICAN REU CROSS "LEARN-TO-SWIM" LEVELS
The "Learn-to-Swim" program is divided into seven course levels. The
prerequisite for each level is successful demonstration of the skills from the preceding
level, with the exception of Level 1 which has no prerequisite.
Is anyone you know feeding a little wet behind the ears? Enroll him or her in an
American Red Cross "Learn-to-Swim" course.
There's something for everyone in the American Red Cross "Learn-to-Swim"
program--seven levels of instruction designed to help swimmers of all ages and
abilities develop and refine their skills. Authorized Red Cross Water Safety Instructors
teach a variety of strokes, including the front crawl, back crawl, elementary backstroke,
breaststrokes, sidestroke, and butterfly.
They also introduce a wide range of personal safety skills and diving
techniques. At more advanced levels, students refine skills, learn the basics of spring-
board diving, and discover how to incorporate swimming into a lifetime fitness
regimen.
"Learn-to-Swim" is the most comprehensive and effective program of its time.
Orient to aquatic environment and create a sound foundation for
aquatic and safety skills.
Safety and Rescue Skills:
- Understand the basic water safety rules.
- Know the fundamentals of using a life jacket.
- Know how to handle a cramp.
- Know how to get help.
- Perform reaching assists without equipment.
Swimming and ®iving Skills:
- Enter and exit water independently.
- Eu11y submerge face for 3 seconds; blow bubbles.
- Sounce in chest-deep water (bob) to chin level 10 times.
- Walk 5 yards in chest-deep water, maintaining balance.
- Moat, while supported, on front and back.
- Kick, while supported, on front and back.
- Practice basic alternating arm action.
- Understand safe diving rules.
- Sob in water slightly over head to travel to safe area.
Page 2
- Jump into deep water with life jacket on.
- Jump into deep water from side of pool.
- Demonstrate the Heat Escape Lessening Posture for 1 minute.
- Perform "huddle" position with other participants for 1 minute.
- Know how to open airway for rescue breathing.
-Retrieve an object from the bottom- in-chest-deep water.
- Perform 15 bobs in chest-deep water.
- Do back crawl for 10 yards.
- Do elementary backstroke kick for 10 yards.
- Dive from- the- side of poo!-from kneeling anti tom-pact positions.
- Tread water.
- Reverse direction while swimming on back.
- Coordinate arm stroke for front crawl with breathing to the front or side
for 10 yards.
- Perform front glide with push-off, 2 body lengths.
- Reverse direction while swimming on front.
Stroke Development:
~ir~: Develop confidence and competency in strokes and safety
skills beyond preceding levels and introduce breaststroke and sidestroke.
Safety amp: Rescue Skills
- Become familiar with CPR.
- Demonstrate Rescue Breathing.
- Practice alternate breathing.
- Swim under water 3 body lengths.
- Tread water for 2 minutes with ~ different kicks.
- Demonstrate basic dives:
* Standing front dive from diving board.
* Long, shallow dive.
- Perform the following:
* Breaststroke, 10 yards.
* Sidestroke, 10 yards.
* Elementary backstroke, 25 yards.
" Dolphin kick, 10 yards.
* Front crawl, 50 yards.
* Back crawl, 50 yards.
Feet-first surface dive.
Stroke Proficiency:
r Develop maximum efficiency and endurance for strokes and
also introduce flip-turns.
Page 3
Safety and Rescue Skills:
- Demonstrate throwing assists.
- Know how to roll a spinal injury victim face-up.
Swimming and Diving Skills:
- Perform turns (do breaststroke turn and pull-out).
- Flip-turn for front crawl.
- Tread water for 3 minutes (1 minute without hands, 2 with).
- Demonstrate jump-tuck from diving board.
- Perform an approach and hurdle on diving board.
- Perform pike surface dive and tuck surtace dive.
L1 FEGUARDING
Pur~OSe: To teach lifeguard candidates the skills and knowledge necessary to
prevent and respond to aquatic emergencies.
~earnin 'ect'~es:
- Understand the value of behaving in a professional manner.
- How to identify behaviors of distressed swimmers (active or passive driving
victim).
- Understand components of emergency action plans and how to activate them.
- Understand general procedures of a water emergency when rescuing a victim.
- Demonstrate how to perform equipment-based rescues.
- Learn to administer First Aid, care for cardiac and breathing emergencies.
- Learn how to recognize and care #or possible head, neck and back injuries.
Course length: 28-1/4 hours.
- C. Per P. Per
- Community First Aid
- Use of equipment:
1. Pocket Mask
2. Bag Valve Mask
3. Oxygen administration
Automated External Defibrilation
SNORKELING/SURFING/BOOGIE BOARDING
1. The Snorkler's Environment (how we care for Mother Earth, Coral Reef
food chain)
2. The Equipment
3. fibs Skills
4. Pressure
5. Hypothermia
Page ~
6. ~lyperventilation
Additional equipment
8. Pirst Aid
9. Planning a Snorkeling Adventure
COMMUNITY INPUT: -Japanese/Okinawan Association
- Canoe Paddling Clubs/Association
- Surf Clubs
CLOSING: We thank you for the opportunity you have given us to express our
interest. We hope the American Red Crass will be able to fulfill its intent.
.
1. When you are over the victim, let go of the rescue tube but keep
hold of the strap. From a vertical position, press downward with
your hands and give a strong kick to rise in the water (Fig. 7-1, A).
Take a breath and let your body sink. Keep your legs straight and
together with the toes pointed (Fig. 7-1, B).
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Figure 7-1, A
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Figure 7-1, B
145
2. When your downward momentum slows, turn your palms out-
ward and sweep your hands and arms upward. Repeat this arm
movement until you reach the desired depth (Fig. 7-1, C).
Figure 7-l, C
3. Have participants practice the skill until they feel comfortable.
Check off the participants' skills on the Lifeguarding Skills
Checklist (Appendix M) as you watch them practice.
Submerged victim Rescue (35 minutes)
i A submerged victim may either be passive or active, but you use the
same rescue skill in both cases.
Explain and demonstrate how to perform a submerged victim rescue.
Lifeguarding Today
pages 118 & 119 TEACHING TIP:
Demonstrate this skill on deck near a 1-meter diving board or
another structure that is high enough and safe to stand on. Have a
co-instructor, instructor aide, or participant stand on the board and
hold the rescue tube up high vertically. The strap of the rescue tube
is attached to you when demonstrating this skill (Fig. 7-2). By
doing this, you can show participants both how to secure the victim
and the interchange when pulling the towline down and placing it
in the other hand.
146
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Assign partners or ask participants to find a partner. Guide the
participants through the following steps:
Do not use swim goggles when performing this skill because
serious injury may result. Swim goggles, unlike a scuba mask, do
not allow you to relieve the pressure when diving or swimming to
a depth.
1. Do a feet-first surface dive and position yourself behind the
victim.
2. Reach one arm under the victim's arm (right arm to right side or
left arm to left side) and across the victim's chest. Mold firmly on
to the victim's opposite side (Fig. 7-3, A).
3. When you have secured the victim, reach up with the other hand
and grasp the towline, then pull it down and place it in the hand
holding the victim (Fig. 7-3, B). Keep pulling it until you reach
the surface. If possible, push off the bottom and kick to help you
reach the surface.
4. As you near the surface, position the rescue tube so that it is
squeezed between your chest and the victim's back (Fig. 7-3, C).
147 11
5. Reach your free arm under the victim's armpit and grasp his
or her shoulder (right arm to right shoulder or left arm to left
shoulder) (Fig. 7-3, D).
6. Move the other arm from across the victim's chest and grasp his
or her shoulder.
7. Support the victim in a face-up position on the rescue tube as in
the active or passive victim rear rescue (Fig. 7-3, E}.
8. Move the victim to safety.
9. Have participants perform the skill several times and then change
places with their partners and repeat the practice. Have partici-
pants practice the skill until they feel comfortable performing it.
Check off the participants' skills as you watch them practice.
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149 111
Remouai From the Water (25 minutes)
" ~ ' i Explain to the participants that their decision whether to remove the
victim from the water depends on-
Lifeguarding Today The victim's condition.
page 121 The length of time before you expect help to arrive.
The size of the victim.
1~ Others available to help you.
If a victim needs rescue breathing or CPR, remove him or her
from the water as soon as possible.
Remind participants that they would not perform the following
two removal skills if they suspect spinal injury and the person is
breathing.
Note: Care for suspected spinal injury is covered in Lesson 9.
Two-lifeguard Lift
° ~ ° I i r~ Emphasize that two lifeguards are needed to remove a victim safely
from the water.
Explain and demonstrate the two-lifeguard lift. Assign or ask partici-
pants to work in groups of three (two lifeguards, one victim). Guide
participants through the following steps:
Lifeguarding Today
pages 121-123
SAFETY TIP:
Make sure participants lift with their legs and not with their backs
when practicing this skill. Improper lifting can cause injury.
150
3. When the victim grasps the rescue tube, slowly pull him or her
to safety (Fig. 6-8, B).
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_ Figure 6-S, B
4. Have participants perform the skill several times and then change
places with their partners and repeat the practice. Have partici-
pants practice the skill until they feel comfortable performing it.
Check off the participants' skills as you watch them practice.
siutmim Feu Rescue (1 ~ minutes)
t , ' i The swimming extension rescue is a simple rescue used for a
distressed swimmer.
3 i 'Explain and demonstrate the swimming extension rescue. Guide
participants hrough the following steps:
1. Approach the victim from the front. Slow your approach as you
Lifeguarding Today near the victim (Fig. 6-9, A).
page 114
Figure 6-9, A
135
2. Extend the end of the rescue tube to the victim. Tell the victim to
grasp the rescue tube, hold it for support, and kick if he or she
can (Fig. 6-9, B).
Figure 6-9, B
3. Move the victim to safety (Fig. 6-9, C).
Figure 6-9, C
4. Have participants perform the skill several times and then change
places with their partners and repeat the practice. Have partici-
pants practice the skill until they feel comfortable performing it.
Check off the participants' skills as you watch them practice.
111 136
~cti~e victim Rear Rescuc (25 minutes)
' ~ The active victim rear rescue can be used for either a distressed
swimmer or an active drowning victim. Approaching from the rear
is safest for you.
' ~ 1?xplain and demonstrate the active victim rear rescue. Guide participants
through the f®llowing steps:
Lifeguarding Today 1. Approach the victim from the rear. Slow your approach as you
page 115 near the victim (Fig. 6-10, A).
Figaere 6-I0, A
2. Reach under the victim's armpits and grasp the shoulders
(Fig. 6-10, B).
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137
Squeeze the rescue tube between your chest and the victim's
back (Fig. 6-10, C).
Figure ~-I®,_C
3. Lean back and pull the victim onto the rescue tube. Use the
rescue tube to support the victim with his or her face out of the
water. Talk to the victim to calm him or her (Fig. 6-10, D).
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.....Figure 6-I0, D
SAFETY TIP:
Keep your head to one side as you reach for and support the victim to
prevent being hit by the victim's head if it comes back toward you.
138
4. Move the victim to safety using a kick you feel comfortable with.
5. Have participants perform the skill several times and then change
places with their partners and repeat the practice. Have partici-
pants practice the skill until they feel comfortable performing it.
Cheek off the participants' skills as you watch them practice.
' ~ S ' ~ A rescue situation-may involve two or more victims. Often a victim
-will clutch a nearby person in an effort to stay at the surface.
~,fegtcard~2~ ~oaay ` ff you are the only lifeguard in a situation where two victims are
liage 120
elutchng each other, use the multiple-victim rescue.
~xpla~n and demonstrate the multiple-victim rescue. Assign or ask
participants to-work in groups of three (two victims, one lifeguard).
Guide participants through the following steps:
Approach one victim from the rear and slow your approach
before you make contact.
2. Grasp the victim by reaching under the victim's armpits and
grasping the shoulders (Fig. 6-11, A). Squeeze the rescue tube
between your chest and the victim's back.
~'agure 6-II, A
139
3. Begin kicking and lean back. This helps bring the faces of both
victims out of the water (Fig. 6-11, B). Remember to talk to the
victims to calm them.
Figure G-Il, ~
Move the victims to safety.
5. Have participants rotate so that each participant performs the
skill as the rescuer. Have participants practice the skill until they
feel comfortable performing it. Check off the participants' skills
as you watch them practice.
Passive Victim Rear Rescue (20 minutes)
You use the passive victim rear rescue when the victim seems
unconscious and you do not suspect a spinal injury.
Lifeguarding Today Because of differences in buoyancy, the victim's position may
page 116 vary from nearly vertical to nearly horizontal.
E Explain and demonstrate the passive victim rear rescue. Assign
partners or ask participants to find a partner. Guide participants
through the following steps:
1. Approach the victim from the rear.
2. Reach under the victim's armpits and grasp the shoulders.
Squeeze the rescue tube between your chest and the victim's
back (Fig. 6-12, A).
3. Roll the victim over so that he or she is face up on top of the
rescue tube (Fig. 6-12, B).
4. Move the victim to safety; use one hand to stroke if you prefer.
To do this, reach your right arm over the victim's right shoulder
and grasp the rescue tube. Then use your left hand to stroke
140
(Fig. 6-12, Cj. Yew can also reach with y~nu~ left arm and stroke
with your right hand.
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141
5. Have participants perform the skill several times and then change
places with their partners and repeat the practice. Have partici-
pants practice the skill until they feel comfortable performing it.
Check off the participants' skills as you watch them practice.
~IIYD~". Jr l111IB(1fSS
Summarize the rescue skills covered in this lesson:
~ Entries
Approaches
~ Extension Assist From the Deck
~ Swimming Extension Rescue
Active Victim Rear Rescue
~ Multiple Victim Rescue
~ Passive Victim Rear Rescue
Answer any questions.
~ Review Chapter 8 of Lifeguarding Today.
142
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' ~ ' i The two specific rescue techniques used in the water to minimize
movement of a victim's head and neck are the head splint and the
head and chin support.
Lifeguarding Today
page 206
`~EA~HING SIP:
You may want to demonstrate the in-line stabilization techniques
on land first. Have a co-instructor, instructor aide, or participant
stand on the deck as you demonstrate these skills. By doing this, you
can sh®w-the :placement of the hands and arms when performing
these skills.
' ? _ ~ ' f ' ~ The Mead glint technique is used for victims found facedown at or
near the surface. It can be used in both shallow and deep water.
Lifeguarding Today Standing in shallow water, explain and demonstrate the head splint
page 206 technique. Assign partners or ask participants to find a partner. Guide
participants through the following steps:
1, Approach the victim from the side.
2. position-the:victim's arms against his or her head. Do this by
gasping the-..victim's arms midway between the shoulder and the
elbow. Grasp the victim's right arm with your right hand and the
victim's left arm with your left hand.
3. Squeeze he arms against the victim's head in an effort to
immobilize the head and neck (Fig. 9-1, A).
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Figure 4-1, A
179 l
4. With your body at about shoulder depth in the water, glide the
victim slowly forward.
5. While moving, rotate the victim toward you so that he or she
turns faceup in the water. This is done by pushing the victim's
arm that is closer to you under water while pulling the victim's
other arm across the surface (Fig. 9-l, B).
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6. Position the victim's head in the crook of your arm, with the
head in line with the body (Fig. 9-l, C).
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7. Maintain this position until help arrives.
8. Have participants perform the skill several times and then change
places with their partners and repeat the practice. Have partici-
pants practice the skill until they feel comfortable performing it.
Check off the participants' skills on the Lifeguarding Skills
Checklist (Appendix M) as you watch them practice.
l 180
Neal and Chin- Support Technique
t The head and chin support can be used for a victim who is face up or
face down. It can be used in deep water and in shallow water more
than 3 feet deep.
Lifeguarding Today
pages 206 & 207 Standing in shallow water, explain and demonstrate the head and chin
support technique for both aface-up and face-down victim. Guide
participants through the following steps:
1. Approach the victim from the side.
2. With your body at about shoulder depth in the water, place one
forearm -along the length of the victim's breastbone and the other
forearm along the victim's spine.
3. Use your hands to gently position the victim's head in line with
the body. I-Iold-the victim's lower jaw with one hand and the
back of-the head with the other hand (Fig. 9-2, A and B).
~'agrare 9-2, A
Fagure 9-2, B
181 l
4. Squeeze your forearms together, clamping the victim's chest and
back. Continue to support the victim's head.
5. If the victim is face down, you must turn him or her face up.
Using the head and chin support to stabilize the spine, begin
moving the victim forward. Rotate the victim toward you while
you start to submerge (Fig. 9-2, C). Roll under the victim while
turning the victim over in the water (Fig. 9-2, D). Do this slowly
to avoid twisting the victim's body. The victim will be face up
when you surface on the other side (Fig. 9-2, E).
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6< Support the- victim faceup in the water until help arrives.
Have participants perform the skill several times and then change
places with their partners and repeat the practice. Have partici-
pants practice the skill until they feel comfortable performing it.
Check off-the participants' skills as you watch them practice.
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< ` > ' ~ Gnce you have stabilized the victim's head and neck with either the
~ ~ifeQ ~odai~ ` -bees-:splint or the head and chin support technique, immobilize the
pages 208-2:12 ~ victim on a backboard and remove him or her from the water.
{ In shallow water, explain and demonstrate how to immobilize a
victim on a backboard. Assign or ask participants to work in groups
Backboards of five (one victim, two lifeguards, two bystanders).
Straps N®te: If you have extra backboards, you can form groups with fewer
Mead Iaaa~®biliaers than five participants.
Have participants rotate, so that each participant plays the role of
the primary rescuer, second lifeguard, and victim. Each participant
will have 10 minutes to immobilize a victim on a backboard and
remove the victim from the water. Guide participants through the
following steps:
1. As you bring the victim toward the side of the pool, a second
lifeguard enters the water, submerges the backboard, and slides it
183
under the victim (Fig. 9-3, A). The backboard must be posi-
tioned so that it extends beyond the victim's head when the
backboard is raised (Fig. 9-3, B).
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2e While the second lifeguard raises the backboard into place,
carefully withdraw your arm from beneath the victim. If you are
using the head and chin support, keep your hand on the chin and
place your other hand under the backboard. If you are using the
head splint technique, move your arm that is under the victim
toward the top of the victim's head while the second lifeguard
holds the victim using the head and chin support (one hand on
the chin and one hand on the board).
3. When the backboard is raised, the second lifeguard holds the
backboard in place. This is done by supporting the backboard
l 184
against the chest and shoulders and squeezing the sides of the
backboard:with the arms. The victim's head is supported by the
second lifeguard placing both hands on the sides of the head
(Fig. 9-3 If other rescuers are available, they can help
support the backboard at the sides.
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.Secure the. victim to the backboard. Straps should be placed
across he victim's chest, hips, and thighs. The strap used on the
chest should: be placed across the chest and under the arms.
Securing his strap tightly under the armpits helps prevent the
victim from iidng:on the backboard during removal from the
water (Fig. 9-3; D). 1`Jsing the hip strap, secure the victim's
hands along his or her sides (Fig. 9-3, E) or in front of the body
(Fig. 9-3, F). The third strap is placed across the victim's thighs
(Fig. 9-3, G).
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185
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11 186
5. Using a head immobilizing device, secure the victim's head
to the board. To do this, place pads on each side of the
victim's head. Then secure a strap across the victim's
forehead (Fig. 9-3, H).
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5. Once the victim is secured on the backboard, remove him or
her from the water. To do this, position the backboard with the
head end by the side of the pool and the foot end straight out into
the pool.
SAtFETl~ T~~:
Make sure participants lift with their legs and not with their backs
when practicing this skill. Improper lifting can cause injury.
187
7. With one lifeguard on each side, lift the head of the backboard
slightly and place it on the edge of the overflow trough if
possible (Fig. 9-4, A).
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8. One lifeguard gets out of the pool and grasps the head of the
backboard. The other lifeguard moves to the foot end of the
backboard (Fig. 9-4, B). As the lifeguard on deck stands up,
steps backward, and pulls the backboard, the lifeguard at the foot
end pushes on the backboard (Fig. 9-4, C). Together they slide
the backboard up over the edge of the deck, out of and away
from the water (Fig. 9-4, D). If others are there to assist, they
should position themselves in the water at the sides of the
backboard and help lift the backboard onto the deck.
x:
~;i<
f~~. , ~
~dgure 9-4, ~
188
~
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~'egaare 9-4, C
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.~r%:>:
~;~;'y~r{,:
:idOS::i::;:~`:;:~?;:;: ;:;:;`ii::'Ni{:ii'riiiiii:Li{ r
N!.~
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Ali.. ;
9. Have participants practice the skill until they feel comfortable.
Check off participants' skills when they assume the position of
the primary rescuer and perform the skill correctly.
Note: The skills for deep water backboarding are taught in Lesson 10
of this instructor's manual.
189 l
C~ ~
ri~rae: ~ ~ine~te~
' ~ ~ Briefly reinforce that caring for a spinal injury requires the life-
guard to minimize movement to the victim's head and body.
The two techniques practiced will enable the lifeguard to keep
the head in-line with the body and minimize movement.
hP' Respond to any questions from participants.
{ ~ ~ Review Chapter 11 of Lifeguarding Today, and read Chapter 12 of
Lifeguarding Today.
111 190
ANGER~US
D
1Vlarine
Organisms of
Hawaii
~e ~~a,~
K~~=~m,
~ANG~ROUS MAI31N~ OF~GANISMS OR IiAVl/All
by
Athline M. Clark
and
J.K. Sims
Sea Grant Advisory Report
U N I H I-S EAG RANT-AR-78-01
July 1978
Revised Edition
March 1987
Fifth Printing
September 1989
This report is published with funding received by the University of
A RANT Hawaii Sea Grant College program under Institutional Grant Nos. 04-7-158-
44129 (firstprinting), 04-8-fJi01-178 (secondprinting), NA79AA-[~-00085 (third
printing), and- NA85P?A-~-SG082 (revised edition, fifth printing) from NOAA
Office of Sea Grant, ®epartment of Commerce. The U.S. Government is
~ authorized to produce and distribute reprints for governmental purposes
notwithstanding any copyright notations that may appear hereon.
fie4~L~ OBe C®Nfi~NfiS
INfii~ ®®U Cfil®N 1
Corals 2
Sea urchins 3
Portuguese rnan-of-war 4
a-lyciroids 5
Jeiiyfishes 6
Sea anerno nes 7
Palythoa toxica 8
Crown of thorns starfish 9
Sponges 10
Microcoleus lyngbyaceus 11
Cone shells 1 2
Octopus 13
Fireworrris 14
Crabs 1 5
Mantis s hrirrip 1 6
Moray eels 17
S urgeonfis hes 1~
Scorpionfish es 19
Great barracuda 20
Neediefishes 21
Stingrays 22
Sharks 23
Mycobacterium marinum 24
Sea snakes 25
~4CKN®V19L~®GMEB~!"f'S 26
` ~B~L6OG~APO°IY
27
iii
11fV°TR ®®UCl°I®N
The semi-tropical waters of the hlawaiian Islands are among the
safest in the world and present a fascinating and abundant display of
marine life for the diver, fisher, swimmer, tide pool explorer, and casual
beachgoer. However, every natural environment has its share of
hazards.
This brochure provides an introduction to marine organisms
that are potentially injurious as they are encountered in the marine en-
vironment; it is not a guide to organisms that are safe or unsafe to eat.
Included are descriptions of potentially dangerous animals and plants,
- injuries that can result from contact with them and their symptoms,
treatments, and preventive measures. They are listed in order of the
likelihood of injury. Corals are described first because coral cuts are the
most common injury suffered by visitors to Hawaii's coastaE waters. It
should be noted that any injury is always subject to secondary infection;
therefore resid-ants and visitors alike should keep their antitetanus im-
munizations current.
The University of Hawaii Sea Grant extension Service is dede-
cated to the expansion of knowledge about our unique marine environ-
ment to make it safe and accessible to all. Use this brochure to become
familiar with fibs potential hazards of som® types of sea life so that you
can enjoy the ocean with greater pleasure, confid®nce, and safety.
Corals
(Ko'a)
Description. Live coral heads grow down to depths of about ~0
m. Common stony corals are covered with mucus and bacteria, and
have many polyps that sit within calyxes or cups that may have razor-
sharp edges. Colors range from shades of white and brown to pastel
pinks and yellows. Corals have stinging cells that can cause irritation to
sensitive skin. Pieces of coral can lodge in a cut making it slow to heal
and prone to bacterial infection. Contrary to popular myth, the coral will
not grow in the cut.
Symptoms injuries. Although a cut may seem clean and
insignificant, local infections can result. Tiny pieces of core! embedded
in the cut and the bacteria associated with them can often produce
inflammation and tend®rness, leading to a festering sore, spreading
infection, and even blood poisoning. Allergic reactions can also be very
serious and time delayed.
~"reatment. Clean the cut immediately and thoroughly using
hydrogen peroxide, soap and water, or normal saline irrigation to
remove the coral debris. Apply tincture of iod'one or a topical antibiotic
as soon as possible. If infection persists, see a physician. 1=or skin
irritation, soak the affected area in a dilute vinegar solution. A topical
antibiotic or prescribed antibiotics may be required.
Preventive measures. Wear tabis (reef slippers) or sneakers
when wading or walking on the reef, gloves when handling coral, and-
fins with a full heel for protection when diving.
~ 1
1 ~ ~
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9 ,
2
Sea urchins
(Wane, `ina, etc.)
~escri tion~. There are two types of commonly encountered sea
urchins which -are potentially dangerous to humans. The first, sometimes
called wane, has long, brittle, needle-sharp primary spines and shorter,
finer, venom-tipped secondary spines. It is rr~st often-black orviolet-black
in color, although sometimes the spines have black and white bands. Wane
grow up to 25 cm in diameter and are found at m®st depths either in crevices
or in the open. The second-type is `ina, the rock boring sea urchin, which has
_ shorter, thicker spines usually black, tan, grey, greyish green, or pink in
color. It lives in holes that it bores in rock or coral along the shoreline.
S~motorn~~fni, Spines from wane break off and remain em~
bedded in the flesh, causing; an immediate throbbing pain. The pain can last
for hours and if the thicker spines are not removed an infection may develop;
the thin, venomous spines may be left in for resorption after detoxification
using the hot water or vinegar therapy described .below. The puncture
wounds from black wane are characteristically blue-black in color.
The 'ina also has spines which cause puncture wounds if stepped
on, but the spines are strong and do not usually break off.
Treatment. The affected area should be soaked in very hot (not
scalding) waterfor ~ 5 to 90 minutes until the pain goes-away. Pain relief may
occur in as little as 7 to ~ 0 minutes. ether remedies include direct application
of undiluted vinegar {very effective) or hot coffee {do raot scald). See a
physician for the removal of embedded spines.and-fragments.
Preventive measures. ~Iways wear protective clothing such as
` gloves and table with thick soles -when diving orwalking on reef flats. Avoid
sticking your hands in crevices. IVo attempt should be made to handle wane.
3
P®rtuguese rnan-of-v~rar
(Pa'i-malau)
6
description. The Portuguese man-of-war is a free- _
floating hydrozoan that looks like a jellyfish. It has a trans-
parent, gas-filled, bluish float which may be as long ~as 5 cm.
Attached to the underside of the float are numerous short .
tentacles and one very long tentacle which can reach severaB
meters. The long tentacle carries stinging cells (nematocysts)
which, when stimulated, discharge threads containing a highly
irritating toxin. The man-of-war floats on the surface of the
water, drifting with the wind and water currents. It is found in
the open ocean seasonally and is carried by onshore wind and
waves to the beaches. Locally, it is seen most often on the
windward shores when a strong onshore wind is blowing.
Symptoms~inj_uries. The man-of-war sting produces
prickling, stinging, and burning sensations. Sometimes blisters
occur. In cases where people have severe stings or allergic
reactions, if signs of difficult or irregular breathing and/or
cardiac irregularities are present, seek emergaenc~r aid
immediately. This is more likely to occur 'sf victim is stung about
head, neck, or chest.
Treatment. Remove the tentacles from the skin
immediately using tweezers, a stick or leaf, a towel, or sand. ®o
not use bare hands. Apply foil strength vinegar. If pain persists
pour on Adolf's or generic unseasoned pepsin papaya meat ~
tenderizers (if patient is not allergic to papaya). Old 1-iawaiian ;
remedies include the direct application of green papaya or
papaya leaves. ®o not use fresh water as that will cause the
nematocysts to discharge. v
Preventive measures. These creatures should be
avoided in the water if possible (they are difficult to see), and
should never be touched, even when they are washed up on
the beach. Avoid walking near them as an incoming wave may
wrap the tentacles around an ankle. The stinging tentacles
remain toxic for many hours after the organism is dead.
4
hydroids
®escr~tion, These attached hydrozoans era colonial organisms
that are sometimes mistaken for seaweed. (Hawaiians call them
stinging limo). They can be found attached to artificial habitats such as
floats, pilings, submerged lines, boat bottoms, etc., or in areas rich in
nutrients such as Kaneohe gay. Depending on the species, colonies
grow from 1 mm to 15 cm in length. The larger species have a thick
main stem and abundant side branches so that the colony looks like a
feather, a fan, or a tree branch with little fuzzy anemones (polyps) on the
sides and ends of each branch. The polyps- have microscopic stinging
ceiis like those of the jellyfishes and Portuguese man-of-war.
Svm„ptorns injuries. The hydroid sting causes burning, itching,
and a rash that may last from several hours to several days. It can
produce a severe al0ergic reacti~ogn in some people. Swimmers usually
get a rash on the chestq al~d®meT3, and legs.
Treatment. Use the treatment described under PORTUGUESE
MAW-0I=-WAR.
Preventive measures. Try not to brush against or grab the
underside of floats, submerged lines, etc.
5
Jellyfishes
(Polo-lie)
®escription. Jellyfishes are self-propelling creatures (compare
with PQRTUGUESI! MAN-OI°-WAR) ranging in size from 11 mm to 30 cm
or more in diameter. They are found in calm bays as weii as in the ®pen
ocean. Open ocean forms are occasionally swept to nearshore waters
by storms. Most jellyfishes are difficult to see because of their
transparency. Charybdea elate and Charybdea rastorri are offensive
jellyfish occasionally found in Waikiki from Thanksgiving to early April.
~m toms injuries. Jellyfishes produce the same kind of sting
as the Portu-guess man-of-war.
Treatment. Use the treatment described
under PORTUGUf=SE MAN-OP-WAR.
Preventive measures. Contact or handlin •
9 . .`~s4$b':
should be avoided.
Y
6
Sea anerr~®nes
('®-kola emi-emi, '®-kola ha-wale, and others)
Descri tP ion. Several species of these email creatures can be
found anchored in rocks- or -sand at most depths, but more often either
at or below the- low-water m-ark. Sea anemones range in size from 1
mm to 1 ~ cm. The solitary polyps of most species are pale i~ color or
translucent with opaque white tentacles arranged in a whorl. Like their
relatives, the hydrozoans and Jellyfishes, sea anemones' tentacles may
contain stingirsg cells (nematocysts). Those. species found attached to
gastropod shells inhabited by hermit crabs often have nematocysts.
~m~toms/in,~uries. Although not t-rue of all species, a sting by
some sea anemones can produce localized itching and burning which
vary from a prickly sensation to severe pain. Nausea, fever, headache,
and allergic reactions result only rarely.
Treatment. Use the treatment described under P013TUGUES~
MAN-QP-WAFt.
Preventive measures. Wear gloves and watch where you put
your hands.
7
Palythoa toxica
(Limn-make-o-Hasa)
®escription. Palythoa toxica, a zoanthid, is an
anemone-like- animal which lives attached to other P.
toxica in a colonial mass which resembles soft coral.
The heavily-encrusted individuals average 5 mm in diam-
eterand may grow to 14 mm in height, but colonies may Ise •
extensive. The oral disk is brown, often with random patterns
of white spots around the mouth. It is sometimes found in surge pools
at Lanai Lookout and Blowhole on Oahu, and the Hana district on fVlaui. .
Non-toxic zoanthids exist, including the common Palythoa tuberculosa
or cushion zoanthid.
S~m~tornsLnjuries. The strong toxin present in the mucus of
this species can be deadly if ingested. If any mucus is accidently
ingested or if the animal comes in contact with an open lesion, get
emergency help immediately. Palythoa toxica was reportedly applied to
speartips in old I-Iawaii to make them lethal.
Treatment. Rinse promptly and thoroughly with water to
remove toxin. Consult a physician immediately.
Preventive measures. ®o not touch these animals and stay
away from areas where they are found.
Crown of thorns starfish
(Hoku kai)
®escri tion. The crown of thorns starfish, Acanthaster planci,
has 16 arms and ;can grow to a size of ~0 cm or larger. Its upper surface
is covered with- sharp, fairly rigid spines greenish red to light brown in
color. It lives on corals -and- feeds on coral polyps and can be found on
reef flats or patch reefs to depths of 60 m.
~m horns in'uries. Apink-stained puncture from the crown of
thorns starfish's short, sharp, venom-coated spines produces
" immedi-ate and- severe pain, with signs of inflammation. Vomiting may
occur shortly after-the injury and can last from ~ to ~4 days.
Treatment. Remove loose spines; get medical treatment for
embedded spines, These must be pulled out straight or they may break
off at the tips and remain under the skin. Use the treatment~described
under ~~A U~GHINS. Watch for inflection and obtain any needed
treatment early.
Preventive measures. Use extreme caution when handling
crown of thorns starfish. Wear heavy gloves and tabis with thick soles
when exploring the reef.
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A A t ~~t~~~~ / ~ ~
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9
Sp®nges
(F-lu'a-hu'a kaa'i or hu'a kai)
UescriQtion. Common around most shorelines and an important
component of most bottom environments, sponges are found to depths
of 10,000 m. Sponges occur in a large variety of sizes, shapes, and
colors. Sody support for the soft structure is provided by minute
calcareous or siliceous rods called spicules or by spongin fibers, either
separately or in combination with spicules. The I~iawaiian fire sponge is
a red-orange encrusting form with a slimy surface.
S~ptoms in'uries. When handled, sponge spicules can lodge
under the skin, causing a burning and itching sensation. The fire
sponge produces an irritating chemical that can cause burning,
dermatitis, and small blisters in 4he skin.
Treatment. Use the treatment described under C®RALS.
Protective measures. Avoid handling sponges.
,
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10
Microcoleus lyngbyaceus
(Limu)
®escriotion. This fine, filamentous blue-green alga, which is
often dark groan or blackish green, is commonly found tangled with
other seaweeds on reef fiats, in tidepools, or in deeper subtidai habitats.
It can be carried by waves into swimming areas, notably Laie and Kaiiua
on Oahu and other windward areas, and often forms floating masses on
the surface of Kaneohe Say.
- Syme~toms in~ies. When fragments of Microcoleus
lyngbyaceus lodge inside swimmers' suits, they can cause minimal to
very severe inflammation of the skin, even if the person affected is not
allergic to the alga.
Treatment. swimmer who has been exposed
to this blue_green- alga should wash the affected
area immediately with soap and water and change
swim suits.
Preventive measures. Swimmers who
are allergic to the alga should. stay out
of the water when i# is present in large
C,tlan$ltles.
Con® shells
(I'upu makaloa)
®esc~tion. Cone shells are conical, and some have gold,
brown, or black patterns on the shell. Ranging in size from 1 to 10 cm
they are found in reef crevices or buried in the sand on the undersides
of dead coral and boulders. Cone shells have a venomous dart-like
mechanism, released from the narrow end of the shell, which is used to .
sting and paralyze prey. The effect may vary in intensity and the venom
of many cones is not injurious to humans. 0-iowever, five tropical
species have been proven to be deadly to man. On l~-fawaii the most
dangerous cones are those with a triangular or "tent" pattern on the
shell.
S~m.~toms/injuries. The pain from a sting can range from
minimal to extreme. The venom can cause either local stinging,
burning, or numbness with inflammation. Vomiting may occur shortly
after the injury and can last from ~ to 4 days. The most toxic species
can cause paralysis, coma, respiratory failure, or cardiac arrest.
Treatment. Use the hot water treatment described under SEA
UI~CI-IIIVS. because the venom can be extremely dangerous, the victim
should be treated at the nearest emergency medics! facility. If it can be
done safely, bring the offending cone shell along for identification.
Preventive measures. Great caution should be used when
collecting live cone shells. Flandle them only from the broad end. They
should be left alone; a moment of carelessness could prove to be very y
painful.
a
12
i
i
®ctopus
Uescrit~tion. The octopus, often called "squid" locally, has a
rounded sac-like- body and eight sucker-lined arms. This timid creature
hides under rocks or in holes in the reef fiat, but is capable of inflicting a
bite with its beak, which is located at the center of the body on the
underside. There are two species of octopus common in l°lawaii, the
day "squid°° and the night '°squid'°.
toms~in~uries. An octopus bite can produce a skin wound
with possible bleeding. A toxin from the octopus' salivary glands may
be injected into the victim when bitten. The injected toxin may cause a
painful irritation similar to that produced by a bee sting.
Treatment. Use the treatment described under C®Fie4LS.
Preventive measures. Use care when handling an octopus. 8e
gentle with it and it will be gentle with you.
:o. ~ .
. ~ . ~
~ ~ .
s.
13
I`ireworms
{'Aha-hulu-hulu)
®escr~tion. Fireworms or "bristleworms" are segmented
worms that live in dead coral heads or under rocks and found mainly on
reef flats. Fireworms are white to salmon-colored with thin bristles on
the sides of the body. They range in size from 1 to 10 cm.
Symptomslinjuries. The fireworm's thin, sharp bristles can +
penetrate even very tough skin. Because the bristles are tiny and
curved, they are almost impossible to remove once they lodge under
the skin. The bristles contain a toxin which may cause burning, itching;
or stinging, and often the skin will swell and the individual punctures
may become inflammed.
Treatment. Use vinegar or the treatment described under
SPONGES. Sometimes the tiny bristles can be removed with adhesive
tape.
Preventive measures. Se careful when turning over rocks in
shallow water. Wear gloves for protection. Avoid handling.
14
Crabs
(Pa-Pa'i)
Description. Crabs are among the most varied of Hawaiian
shoreline organisms. They come in an assortment of sizes, shapes,
and colors, and live in a great diversity of habitats from tidal zones to
reef flats and ocean bottoms. Because of their strong pinchers (chelae)
many crabs are potentially harmful, and the larger the crab the more
harm its pinchers can do.
~mptosr~s/on'u~
-ties. Crab pinchers can bruise, pinch, or cause
shallow to deep wounds, depending on the size of the crab. Large
crabs have been known to amputate fingers.
Treatment. Wash wound with soap and water, treat with a
topical antibiotic, and watch for infection. If wound is serious, apply
pressure to control bleeding and consult a physician.
Preventive measures. Be careful of pinchers when handling
crabs. Wear gloves or use a net to catch them.
S
L'•.
''.a=.~ _
• a.
15
IMantis shrimp
('Alo 'alo)
C~escription. These elongated, shrimp-like crustaceans can be
found in shaiiow to deep water under stones or in holes in dead coral.
They range in size from 2 to 3® cm in length and in color from dark
greenish or reddish brown to bright orange, pale yellow, and white.
Some have distinctive black markings.
Sym~toms~(in~uries. Instead of pinchers, mantis shrimp have
two enlarged, often spiny appendages that fold outward like the bladej,
of a jackknife. When snapped open these appendages can inflict a
knife-like wound.
Treatment. Use treatment described under CRADS.
Preventive measures. Do not handle with bare hands. Wear
gloves when turning over stones or blocks of dead coral.
Q
J
W
16
11A®ray eels
(Puhi)
~escrit~tion. Most moray eels have fleacible, firm bodies, and
sharp, recurved teeth for hunting fish within the reef. Their tough,
scaleless skin is often colorful. Typical patterns include large, blackish
spots on a white background, bands of zebra-like stripes, specks of
. dark, star-shaped spo#s over the body, clouded pearl-tike, or yellow
colorations, or solid colors including white. Moray eels range in length
from 2® cm to ~ m, but average Tess than 1 m. Whey live in holes and
crevices in the reef, and are often encountered with their heads
protruding from the holes, mouths opened wide to breathe. They swim
in the open at night.
S,~mptoms/injuries. The sharp teeth of moray eels can inflict
ragged wounds, often producing much bleeding and requiring
immediate medical treatment. Nerve, muscle, ligament, and tendon
injury can result as wail as skin and tissue damage. As with other
fishes, the bite itself is not considered poisonous by many, but the teeth
may be covered with bacteria that can cause infection.
Treatment. 1=or superficial wounds wash thoroughly with soap
and water and apply atopical-antibiotic. Apply pressure and elevate to
control bleeding; apply ice to reduce pain and swelling. l`or more
serious injuries use the treatm-ant described under SHARDS.
Preventive measures. Moray eels usually do not attack unless
provoked, although a few surprise attacks have been reported. ®ivers
should be wary of sticking their fingers, arms, or legs in hidden crevices
of the reef.
s
17
Surgeonfishes
(Kale, palani, etc.}
IDescri tp ion. Surgeonfish represent one of the most abundar
families of Hawaiian fishes. They are distinguished from other ree
fishes primarily by their high forehead, which may be horned, deeK
body, and small mouth. They feed on algae and are found mainly or
reef flats and in nearby deeper waters. Their colors vary greatly among
species. Surgeonfish are named for their most distinguishing feature -
a single sharp folding spine or pair of fixed spines at the base of the tail.
Symptoms/injuries. The spines can inflict deep gashes
sometimes leaving portions of the spine embedded.
e4 painful sting may result from being stuck
with the tail spines.
r,,, ,
Treatment. Wash wound thoroughly
with soap and water and apply a topical anti- , .
biotic. Watch for infection. imbedded spine(s)
should be removed by a physician. 1=or stings, use
hot water treatment described under SEA l1RCHIiVS.
Preventive measures. When handling Surgeonfish, be careful o
the spines ...even when.the fish is dead.
1S
Scorpionfishes
(Nohu)
Uescrit~tion. Scorpionfish in Hawaii do not include the most
venomous group, ca-lied stonefish, but the spines of their dorsal fns are
stilt quite venomous. They range in size from ~ to ~5 cm. In both form
and color, scorpionfish blend so well with their surroundings that they
can easily be passed over unobserved.. Some bear remarkable
resemblance- to any of the odd pieces of eroded coral or reef rocks on
or near which they sit motionless. Their sharp dorsal spines are often
covered by loose skin.
The wasp scorpionfish, also known as the lionfish or turkeyfish,
grows to a length of 17 cm and can be found in shallow water perched
in crevices of overhangs and rocks. The spines and rays of the dorsal
and pectoral fins are very long and are particularly venomous.
~~toms n~u~ies. ~ wound produced by a scorpionfish's
sharp spines can cause intense shooting and throbbing pain that can
last for hours. I~lore serious complications include possible convulsions
and cardiotespiratory failure, but this is very rare in Hawaii.
Treatmen . Use the hot water treatment described under SEA
URCHINS. Qbtain emergency medical help immediately.
Preventive measures. Wear thick-soled shoes and other
protective clothing when walking or swimming on reefs. Wear leather
gloves when fishing or diving. Watch where you put your hands and
feet. Scorpionfish should not be handled when living and carefully
handled when dead.
r..
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•
19
Great barracuda
(Ka-ku)
Description. Barracuda are long-jawed, large-toothed silver fish
found in Hawaiian waters. There are two species the larger reaches a
length of 2 m, while the smaller grows to only 60 cm. They are found in
a wide range of habitats. Juvenile great barracuda swim in schools in
inshore waters. They are often curious and will harmlessly follow
swimmers. Large adults are frequently solitary and are attracted to
bright-colored objects and speared fish.
Symptoms juries. A barracuda bite produces a wound with
straight lacerations. Ne-rues, blood vessels, ligaments, and tendons
may be damaged as well as skin and muscle. Eiieeding may be profuse
and victims may suffer shock.
Treatment. In case of serious bleeding or symptoms of shock,
use the treatment described under SHARKS. Obtain emergency
medical treatment Immediately.
~ .r.s. a ~ as ci. s
measures. In clear, _
local waters barracuda
usually flee or hover, but do not
attack. Bathers should use caution when a large, solitary barracuda is in
the area because excessive splashing may attract its attention.
20
Needlefishes
('Aha or 'aha mete)
®escription. Needlefish are slender, silvery, elongated fish with
large eyes and long, pointed beaks.. They vary in size from less than X15
cm to 2 m. This inshore species- usually swims rapidly near the surface
and often leaps out of the water.
Sym~tocns in'uries. Needlefish can drive their beaks like spears
through objects in their paths producing deep puncture wounds.
Frequently portions of the beak may break off and become embedded
under the skin.
Treatment. ®o not attempt to remove embedded portions of the
needlefish's beak; obtain emergency medical- help.
Preventive measures. o4t night, needlefish feed on small fish
and plankton attracted to lights used by fishermen. They have been
known to leafs into fishing boats. Torch fishermen and night divers
showld erect a shield.
r.
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21
k
Stingrays
(Cups and hihimanu)
Descric~tion. Stingrays have a large, flat, round, or slightly
angular black or sand-colored body that is more wide than long,
typically 1 to ~ m. The tail is usually whip-like and has one or more
large, jagged, venomous spines on its upper surface. When not
feeding, they lie on the bottom, concealed under a light layer of sand or
mud, with only their eyes, tail, and spine exposed.
Eagle rays are similar to stingrays. They may have a single
venomous spine at the base of the long, whip-like tail. Although a sp-ins
wound cannot be inflicted by a whip of the tail, they are dangerous if
stepped on. The spotted eagle rays have awing-Bike, triangular body up
to 1 m wide and can be distinguished from other stingrays by numerous
round, white spots on a dark back.
Symptoms/injuries. When a stingray is stepped on or otherwise
disturbed, it recoils its tail and strikes the offender with a venomous
spine. A stingray can produce deep lacerations accompanied by
severe pain. Because of the toxin discharged, abdominal, chest, head,
or neck lacerations can be very serious.
Treatment. Use the hot water treatment described under CONE
SHELLS. Clean the laceration as described under CORALS. As with
sea urchins and crown of thorns starfish, do not touch embedded
spines; have a physician remove them.
Preventive measures. Beachgoers should shuffle their feet as
they walk in shallow, sandy areas.
_ ~ 1
22
Sharks
(Man®)
®escripti®n. Sharks are well-known ocean predators found in a
variety of habitats and depths in the wa#ers surroun-ding the h-lawaiian
Islands. Sharks are generally grey in color and- adults may range in size
from the small 1.5-m blacktip to the fi-m tiger shark. Sharks seen most
often here include the grey reef, blacktip, whitetip, hammerhead, and
tiger.
. ~m~toms/injuries. A shark bite can be mutilating, producing
severe bleeding, shock, and possible fracture(s) or amputation(s).
Dough denti~les on the shark's skin can cause skin abrasions and
additional superficial wounds. Signs of shock (paleness, cold skin,
dilated pupils, low/absent blood pressure, weak but rapid pulse,
disorientation, and sometimes fainting) may indicate a serious
condition, such as severe blood loss.
treatment. Control the bleeding by applying pressure and
elevating the wounded area. if shock symptoms are present, lie the
person down, maintain body heat, and elevate legs i$ possible. ®btain
emergency medical treatment immediately.
Preventive measures. Although only two known deaths from
shark bite have occurred in 1°iawaii since 1970, t-his unpredictable
creature should be avoided at all times. ®ivers should not tow speared
fish for long distances in water; surfers should return to s-hors if a shark
is sighted, especially during dawn and dusk when sharks venture
inshore to feed. Cloudy or murky waters, especially near sewage
outfalls and garbage dumps, should be avoided.
i ~ r'r< t~:s ~ wR~~rC w
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~S.
23
Mycobacterium marinum
®escri tion. Mycobacterium marinum, formerly Mycobacterium
balnei, is a microorganism that can be found on fishes, in aquarium
water containing contaminated fishes, and on other marine life. This
microorganism causes a common (and potentially severe) infection
called "swimming pool granuloma." Those infected are usually
fishermen, people who handle and clean fish tanks regularly, and
people who work in aquaria.
~m®ptoms/injuries. The Mycobacterium marinum bacteria grow
in cuts and skin abrasions producing swollen lumps or inflammed _
lesions. These may be difficult to distinguish from other severe skin
conditions and a biopsy may be needed. If left untreated, scarring can
result. Infection by this bacteria may also result in a false positive TE3
test.
`Treatment. When symptoms appear, promptly consult a
physician.
Preventive measures. ,ovoid direct contact with contaminated
fishes and aquarium water or when hands have cuts or skin abrasions.
2~
Sea snakes
®escrir~tion. The yellow-bellied sea snake lives on the surface
of the open ocean, feeding on small fish. It is seldom seen in F~lawaii,
but on rare occasions has been found in nearshore waters. The adults
range from .5 to 1.5 m in length with the end of the tail flattened and
broadened to form a paddle for swimming. The back of the sea snake
is colored a striking yellow and black; the belly is ~ pale yellow. Short,
r non-retractable fangs are located far back in the triangular-shaped
head. The fangs deliver a nerve toxin which is used to paralyze prey.
There have been no known cases of sea snake bites in Hawaii.
~m toms/injuries. The relatively painless bite from a sea
snake produces 2 to 20 smelt pink to red dots. The victim wilB become
tired and have difficulty moving. If untreated, dea#h from respiratory,
heart, or kidney failure may result. Less severe cases may cause mus-
cle, tissue, and kidney damage, but victims will recover without long
term ill effects if antivenim is administered.
Treatment. Wash wound with water and apply a venal constric-
tive band. ®on't move; let someone else move you. Get emergency
medical treatment immediately. The 1-lawaii Poison Center and the
Waikiki Aquarium have sea snake antivenim available.
Preventive measures. Avoid handling sea snakes. They are
docile creatures, but have been known to bite defensively when caught
in fishing nets.
- -
e'
23
~~r
ACKN®WLEIJGIVIEN°fS
the University of Hawaii Sea Grant Extension Program
acknowledges the following manuscript reviewers: Jon Pegg, M.D.,
clinical associate professor of physiology, John A. Burns School of
Medicine, University of Hawaii; Edith H. Chave, researcher, Hawaii
Undersea Research Laboratory; Maxwell S. Doty, professor of botany,
University of Hawaii; Jeff Hunt, program analyst, Community Colleges,
University of Hawaii; and Carol Hopper, Ph.D., science advisor, Waikiki
Aquarium.
Victoria Nelson, Susan Baldwin, and Athline Clark did the
research and Wendy Nakano and Rick Cesar the line drawings.
2f
i
~IDLI®(aRa4R~lY
Sanner, A.N. 1977. I-lazardous marina animals. In f=orensic Medicine,
ed. C.G. Tedeschi, W.G. Eckert, and L.G. Tedeschi, pp. 1378-
1436. Philadelphia: W.G. Saunders.
Devaney, and L. Eldrege. 1977. Beef and Shore fauna of I-lawaii,
Section Protozoa Through Ctenophore. Honolulu: Sishop Mu-
seum Press.
Edmonds, Carl, M.C. (No date.} Dangerous Marine Animals of the Indo-
Pacific Region. Newport: Wedneil Publications.
Gillet, K., and I°. McNiel. 1959. The Great barrier Reef and Adjacent
Isles. Paddington: Coral Press Pub. Ltd.
Gosline, W., and V. Brock. 1960. f~andbook of f-lavvaiian fishes.
Honolulu: University of I-tawali Press.
Halstead, R.W. 1978. Poisonous and Venomous Marine Animals of the
World. Rev. ed. Princeton, New Jersey: Darwin Press.
Halstead, R.W. 1959. Dangerous Marine Animals. Cambridge: Cornell
Maritime Press.
Helm, Thomas. 1976. Dangerous Sea Creatures: A Complete Guide to
!-fazardous Marine Life. New York: f=unk and Waggnals.
Randall, John. 1960. The living javelin. Sea frontiers 644):228-233.
Sims, J.K. 1978. Dangerous aquatic organisms. In Emergency Nursing,
ed. J. Barry, pp. 391-399. New York: McCaraw-I-fill.
Sims, J.K. 1984. Dangerous marine life. In The Phgrsicians Guide to
Diving Medicine, ed. C.W. Shilling, C.S. Carleton, and R.A.
Mathias, pp. 427-440. New York: Plenum Press.
Sims, J.K. 1985. Emergencies related to marine fauna. In Emergency
Medicine A Comprehensive Study Guide, ed. J.E. Tintinalli,
R.J. Rothstein, and R.L. Krome, pp. 384-386. New York:
McGraw-Hill.
27
.
.
fit.:.
Sims, J.K., F''.I. ~nomoto, €~.I. Frankel, and L.M.F. Wong. 1983. Marine
bacteria complicating seawater near-drowning and marine
wounds: ~ hypothesis. Annals of Emergency Medicine 12:212-
216.
Strauss, M.~., and W.L. Orris. 1974. Injuries to divers by marine
animals: ~ simplified approach to recognition and manage-
. ment. Military Medicine 139:129-130.
28
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I~r®duc~d ~y: l~nite~ Mates Lifesaving ass®cs~tion
I~aaii ~eagic~n
City ~®unty N®n®iu~cll l.ifeguarc~s
Technical Assistance: Seah®rse Pr®da~cti®ns
Artist: ~~m ~iearty, yVater safety ®~ficer
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IlnWall STATE DFPARIMENT OF HC.ALTH
HEALTH PFiO~N®TBOt~ AN® EDUCATION DIVISt~N
JOHN WAl1iEE JOHN C. LEWIN '
G~wrrnrr Sl~b~ nl Ilawa„ OrrwNOr of Health