What method should be strictly avoided when physically removing Man-o'-War tentacles from the skin after deactivation?
Answer
Using bare hands.
After the nematocysts have been chemically deactivated, usually with vinegar, the next step involves physically clearing the remaining tentacle material from the skin. Because the stinging cells can remain potentially active or their barbs can be easily pressed deeper, direct physical contact must be avoided. Using bare hands is explicitly warned against, as this risks transferring the stinging cells to the hands or causing secondary firing upon direct pressure. Recommended safe methods involve mechanical tools such as the dull edge of a plastic card or tweezers to lift or scrape the material away gently.
Related Questions
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