Stings from venomous fish can be severe and life-threatening.

To protect yourself and your children, wear thick-soled shoes when walking on reefs. Do not pick up rocks as they could be stonefish.

• Flush the wound with water and remove debris.
• Immerse in hot water (45 degrees for a maximum duration of 90 minutes).
• Apply pressure if wound is bleeding but do not apply a pressure bandage to site.
• Seek medical help if pain does not lessen in 1 hour or if a spike/spine from the species is under the skin.
• Call the Poisons Information Centre for further advice on 13 11 26.