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There are many dangers that can be found on the beach
this page gives basic information on what to look out for.
Home > Information pages > Beach Dangers
Safety first
- Do not let your children play on untethered rafts, dinghy's or other inflatable toys. These can be easily blown offshore.
- Always be aware of the direction the tide is moving, it can move deceptively quickly, and cut you off.
- Take plastic bottles with you. Glass can break.
- Remove all rubbish with you when you leave - it can be dangerous to wildlife, as well as people.
- Beware of litter on the beach, there may be sharp objects, syringes, broken glass, etc
Drums. What to do if you find drums on the beach
- Are they empty? (if unsure, do not attempt to open or pierce)
- Is the container leaking. (Yes - stay upwind if it is). Call the Coastguard (pollution threat.)
- Are there any markings on the container. (No - Then think Danger Yes - make a note, and pass on to the Coastguard.)
- If in any doubt, call the Coastguard or Local Authority.
Unidentified Objects - things to report
- Where is it?
- How visible is it? (half buried, on top of sand/rock)
- What size is it?
- What colour is it?
- What shape is it?
- Are there any markings?
- Features - does it have fins, horns, wires, pins?
- DO NOT touch anything you are unsure of. Leave it to the experts.
- If you find something that you think is explosive, Do not pick it up. Try to mark the site in some way.
- Make a note of what it looks like (see Unidentified Object above)
- Call the Coastguard.Do not use your mobile phone near any ordinance you find.
- Explosives come in all shapes & sizes. If unsure leave well alone.
Below is a selection of marine pyrotechnics. Remember if you find something on the beach the markings may have been washed or rubbed off by the sand!

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This web site reflects the views / humour of some members of the Aberdeen Coastguard Rescue Team only and not the MCA / HM Coastguard
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