Blue-ringed octopus and cone shells
Call 000Do now Keep them still. Bandage the limb. Start CPR if they stop breathing.
Police, fire and ambulance. Free from any phone.112 works from a mobile. 106 is the text relay if you are deaf or have a speech impairment. Need an interpreter? Say “I want a [your language] interpreter”.Stay on the line. The call taker may give you first aid instructions.Not sure where you are? The free Emergency+ app shows your location. Install it before you need it.
SourcesQueensland Ambulance Service — calling an ambulanceTriple Zero — Australian GovernmentEmergency+ app
Blue-ringed octopuses are not aggressive, but the bite is venomous and can cause paralysis. Cone shells live in reef waters. For both, call 000, lie the person down and keep them still, and apply a pressure bandage and splint.
- Blue-ringed octopus: numbness around the mouth, tongue, face and neck, and a tight chest or trouble breathing. You may need to start CPR, and keep going until help arrives.
- Cone shell: pain, swelling and numbness at the sting, then weak muscles, including the breathing muscles, and disturbed vision, speech and hearing.
SourcesANZCOR — marine envenomation (9.4.5)ANZCOR — pressure immobilisation technique (9.4.8)Better Health Channel — bites and stings first aid