Box 7.4Suggested communication messages for the general public and beach managers

Communication for the general public

  • When visiting the beach, leave nothing behind but your footprints. You may even help clean up if you see an item of solid waste.
  • Shower thoroughly when you get home, but also use the showers at the beach. Make sure you wash off sand from your skin and from the inside of your ears.
  • If you have wounds, dress them properly with waterproof bandages before you go to the beach and avoid exposure to water; otherwise, the wound may get infected.
  • Don’t rub your eyes if you have sand in them; rinse with clean water instead. Rubbing may cause abrasions that might result in infections.
  • Do not take pets to the beach. Take them to non-bathing areas instead.

Communication for beach managers

  • Conduct sanitary inspections to identify possible sources of contaminants and develop a plan to manage these sources.
  • Keep litter contained, and make sure it is removed at the end of the day, to avoid foraging by feral animals during the night.
  • Develop a management plan for controlling birds and feral animals.
  • Develop a policy concerning dogs and enforce the policy.
  • If ecologically acceptable, develop an appropriate sand grooming plan.
  • Provide signage for beachgoers to encourage appropriate beach use and inform them about possible health risks.

From: 7, Beach sand

Cover of Guidelines on Recreational Water Quality
Guidelines on Recreational Water Quality: Volume 1 Coastal and Fresh Waters [Internet].
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