We have been blessed with a period of sustained ‘beach weather’ that will inevitably be sending thousands flocking to our beaches over the next few weeks.
I was shocked by a story that broke recently, of a young boy who seriously burnt his feet on the sand, the culprit, an ‘underground sand oven’!
It may not be something commonly known, but using disposable barbecues on a beach can pose a safety risk due to the hot sand left behind, in the area beneath. The sand can retain heat for several hours after the barbecue has been extinguished and disposed of. This has the potential to cause serious, even third-degree burns, if stepped on.
Some useful tips to prevent accidents are:
- Always cool the barbecue thoroughly with water or sand and make sure it is completely cold before disposal.
- Consider using a reusable bucket BBQ on a stand/leg rather than placing barbecues directly on sand or in areas where the tide might come in, as these areas can be difficult to monitor for safety. If using disposable barbecues, consider raising off the sand, on bricks or stones.
- Dispose of the barbecue properly in designated bins or take your waste home if bins are full or unavailable.
- Turn over the sand and douse with sea water to make sure it is adequately cooled before leaving the area.
It is important to note that many parks and open spaces, including some beaches, have restrictions or bans on the use of disposable barbecues due to the fire risk and other safety concerns. You should always check your local council website for specific rules and regulations regarding barbecues in your area.
Stay safe and take care of others so we can all enjoy the beach this summer, without the worry of these hidden hot spots!