Beach lifeguards must also help swimmers who have been stung by jellyfish, which can be highly toxic and can cause cardiac arrest in people with heart conditions. Lifeguards should wear protective gear, such as gloves, when retrieving and treating jellyfish victims, thereby avoiding being stung themselves.
The victim should be removed from the water immediately. The affected area should be rinsed with salt water, never rinse with fresh water as it can worsen the reaction. Protective gloves or forceps should be used to remove tentacles still in contact with the victim. The area should then be immobilized to prevent the spread of toxins.
Treat the affected area with white vinegar rinses to help decrease symptoms and use over-the-counter medications and topical ointments to control the pain.
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