Stingray Shuffle Season is Here

The purple warning flags are out on Clearwater Beach.

What it means to beachgoers is stingrays are in the water.

Clearwater Beach Patrol is seeing an increase in stingray injuries and advises beach visitors to do the "stingray shuffle" when entering the water.

"By shuffling your feet in the sand, you will scare off any stingrays that might be around," according to a release.

Those who sustain injuries can see a lifeguard at one of their towers or go to Fire Station #46, 534 Mandalay Ave.

The only remedy is heat. Typically sting victims are asked if they want a heat pack to treat it on their own or they are taken to the North Beach fire station to soak their foot in warm water.

There can be hundreds of sting victims during the season which lasts through the summer.

Call 727-462-6963.

Related coverage:

• Stingray Season Starts in Clearwater
• Stingray Season at Clearwater Beach Off to an Early Start
• Saving Lives on Clearwater Beach

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