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Marine Hazards

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There are many marine creatures that inhabit our oceans including marine stingers and sharks. Some simple rules can help reduce the number of incidents between these creatures and humans, and the severity of these incidents.

SHARKS
Sharks and Humans-The chances of a shark attack are very low and there are some simple rules for safe swimming to apply to help reduce the risk of incidents involving sharks and humans:

Always swim at a patrolled beach and between the flags.
Leave the water immediately if a shark is sighted.
Never swim alone.
Never swim at dawn or dusk or at night.
Never swim when bleeding.
Do not swim in murky waters.
Do not swim near schools of fish.
Do not swim in canals or near a river mouth.
Do not swim near, or interfere with, shark control equipment.
Remember that sharks and other marine creatures are a natural part of the marine environment.
The lifesaving patrols (and Shark Control Equipment where in place) are there for your safety, please swim only in
patrolled locations.

MARINE STINGERS
These creatures can cause discomfort but most are not lethal.

Common Marine Stingers

PHYSALIA (BLUEBOTTLE):
Appearance: Air-filled sack usually 3-4 cm and up to 10 cm in length.
A long (usually single) tentacle underneath. This may contract to a few centimetres, or extend to over a metre in length.

CATOSTYLUS (BLUBBER):
Appearance: Mushroom shaped bell 5-30 cms in diameter. No tentacles, but up to eight “fronds” or “frills” hanging underneath.

They are usually found in sheltered bays where the sea floor slopes
gradually and near sandbanks at high tide.

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Marine Hazards