September 2020 Safety Message: Lionfish Spines…They Can Ruin Your Dive and Your Day

In keeping with our presentation this evening, I’d like to briefly comment on lionfish spine injuries.

Many of you who have harvested lionfish in the past are aware of the toxic and painful stings they can produce.

The dorsal, anal and the pelvic fins of the lionfish all have very sharp toxic spines that can easily penetrate any glove or clothing material.

If you are stung while diving its best practice to surface and seek 1st aid:  take a pain killer and immerse the effected body part in hot water to deactivate the neurotoxin.

Handle with care!  These spines can ruin your day!

Be Safe
Dave Wills