With whale beachings on the rise, it’s important to remind everyone about the dangers associated with approaching a whale carcass.
While the dead whale may seem harmless at first glance, the bodily bloating that occurs after death can cause some rather explosive eruptions.
Their bodies are so massive and full of blubber that they can contain vast amounts of pressure imposed by decomposition-related gasses. When the body can’t hold it anymore, chunks of variously-sized organic matter can exit the body at speeds exceeding 40 miles per hour.
Management crews practice extreme caution when dealing with deceased whales. In some cases, a long-handled knife is used to create lacerations and relieve the pressure from a distance. Only then can crews safely approach the carcass and remove it from a site.
Instances of improper whale carcass handling remind us all about just how dangerous a carcass eruption can be. So if you ever come across one, stay well away from it and contact local authorities as soon as possible.
