Two experienced foragers had to be rescued from a small Welsh island after eating suspected poisonous hemlock.
Barry Dock RNLI sent a crew to Sully Island, off the coast of Swanbridge in south Wales, where they found two people ‘showing signs of anxiety’.
It is believed the two people had ingested hemlock, a poisonous plant with umbrella-like clusters of white flowers in summer, which produces a repellent smell when its leaves are crushed.
Hemlock can be fatal even in small amounts, affecting the body’s nervous system, eventually causing death by respiratory failure.
The pair, who were found on the eastern beach on Saturday May 3, were immediately returned to the mainland for treatment, where they were handed to Barry Coastguard Rescue Team.
The rescue team identified elevated pulse rates and provided the pair with oxygen.
The RNLI said in a statement: ‘Barry Dock RNLI’s inshore lifeboat was tasked by HM Coastguard on Saturday, May 3, to locate, assess, and medevac two casualties on Sully Island reported to have potentially ingested hemlock.
‘The volunteer crew were advised the casualties, experienced foragers, were on the eastern beach and were located quickly.
‘On arrival the casualties were showing signs of anxiety so the crew immediately fitted them with lifejackets and embarked both onto the ILB for immediate transport to the mainland.’
Bill Kitchen, lifeboat operations manager at Barry Dock RNLI, added: ‘We’ve since been in touch and are very relieved to hear that both have made a full recovery.
‘They absolutely made the right call in seeking help – in situations like this, it’s crucial that medical attention is sought without delay. We’re very glad this had a positive outcome.’
What is hemlock?
Hemlock appears like a cluster of white flowers and is common in shallow water.
It is also known as hemlock water-dropwort and hemlock root.
The plant can also be found near rivers or fresh water and sometimes on beaches if it washes up during storms.
Symptoms of hemlock poisoning
Hemlock poisoning can cause a rash or burning of the eyes if it is touched.
Symptoms tend to start 30 minutes or up to three hours after first contact. People are advised to seek medical attention immediately if they suspect they have been poisoned.
If any part of the plant is ingested this can lead to respiratory failure. Other symptoms include:
- Trembling
- Burning sensation in digestive tract
- Increased salivation
- Dilated pupils
- Muscle pain and weakness
- Decreased heart rate
- Loss of speech
- Convulsions
- Unconsciousness
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