The City of Gulf Shores is reminding beachgoers to be cautious of jellyfish.
Purple flags will be raised to warn visitors of increased jellyfish sightings. Those flags were flying this week as large smacks of jellyfish were sighted along the coast.
If stung, lifeguards say to exit the water calmly and rinse the affected area with vinegar or salt water. Scrape the area with a credit card to remove any stingers from the skin and soak in hot water.
Lifeguards are on duty along Gulf Shores beaches and can assist anyone suffering from a jellyfish sting.
There are several myths surrounding jellyfish, including the notion that urine can help alleviate the pain from a sting. Experts say that is not true.
Some also believe jellyfish are aggressive towards humans. Jellyfish do not go after humans, and all contacts are incidental. Jellyfish do not have brains or hearts.
Experts advise against touching jellyfish, even if they are dead.
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