The 14 year old British national was taken to Axarquía Hospital after being wounded in the knee by a speargun whilst diving off El Playazo beach. Beach services, an ambulance from 061 and firefighters attended the scene. Paramedics were able to remove part of the instrument at the scene and immobilise the teenager’s leg, enabling him to be taken to Axarquía Hospital to remove the weapon and determine the extent of the injuries. The teenager sustained injuries below the left knee and was seen by the Traumatology unit, although thankfully, according to hospital sources, they were not serious.
An important reminder from various authorities is that a speargun is an underwater weapon and must be only loaded or fired underwater when safe to do so and in permitted circumstances. The safety switch is a means of protection and should never be modified and should always be on when reloading. When discharging the speargun underwater, it’s important to know how far it will travel. Also of importance is to be aware of the gun’s recoil when shooting so as to avoid injuries. A speargun is a weapon and should be treated as such.
Individuals are recommended to seek more information from the Spanish Government citizens advice regarding spear guns and sea fishing and to acknowledge all applicable regulations.
