It's the jellyfish you don't see that present the biggest threat. Most parts of the world have non-venomous jellyfish, which tend to be easy-to-spot. What do you do when you see one? If you are a kid, you'll probably pick it up and throw it at another kid (unless it's alive and then you avoid it because they kind of hurt when the waves throw one at you). The jellyball pictured above, for example, is common off the coast of South Carolina, where I live. I realize if it looks like floating jelly, it's considered a "jellyfish," but there are different types of jellyfish and also animals that look like jellyfish but are something else entirely. My Actual Answer: It depends on what kind of jellyfish it is. Detached tentacles are capable of stinging and releasing venom for several weeks. Keep in mind a jellyfish does not need to be alive in order to sting you. If it's on the beach and you need to walk around it, walk above it (dune side) rather than below it (surf side), since it may be trailing tentacles. Question: What should you do if you see a jellyfish? Tentacles from dead animals can still sting! While it's fine to use salt water to rinse the area, fresh water should be avoided because it can cause stinging cells to release venom all at once. Vinegar is the most common chemical used to deactivate the stinging cells.For simple stings, use a shell or credit card to remove any tentacles clinging to skin.Seek emergency aid if the victim is having trouble breathing.While some people are allergic to venom, the main risk comes from drowning. The first step of first aid is to remove the victim from the water.Jellyfish and the Portuguese man-of-war can deliver painful and potentially life-threatening stings.
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