Question

you are swimming in the ocean and receive a bite on the leg from something in the water. as you exit the water, you notice there is a red painful area where you think the bite occurred. what should you do?

call, or have someone else call, 9-1-1 or the local emergency number.

put vinegar on the wound to reduce the pain.

flush the area with cool fresh water to remove the venom.

immediately soak your leg in hot water.

Explanation:

When bitten in the ocean, unknown bites (especially from marine life) can be serious. Calling emergency services (9 - 1 - 1 or local emergency number) is the safest first step as they can provide proper medical guidance. Putting vinegar, flushing with fresh water, or soaking in hot water may not be appropriate or safe without knowing the cause of the bite (e.g., vinegar is for some jellyfish stings but not all marine bites, hot water or fresh water can worsen some injuries).

Answer:

A. Call, or have someone else call, 9-1-1 or the local emergency number.