The weekend at Murlough beach in Co Down took a dangerous turn when a young girl suffered burns to her feet after accidentally stepping on a still-hot disposable barbecue buried in the sand. The incident, which occurred on Sunday afternoon, May 18, left the girl in pain and in need of medical attention. The barbecue, which had been used earlier and covered with a thin layer of sand, was not visible on the surface, leading to the unfortunate accident.
Newcastle Coastguard was quick to respond to the emergency, assisting the Ambulance Service in providing aid to the injured girl. The Coastguard team highlighted the dangers of disposable barbecues on beaches, urging visitors to refrain from bringing them along. The incident served as a reminder of the risks these barbecues pose to unsuspecting walkers and pets, as well as the potential for wildfires in coastal areas.
The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service has previously issued advice to the public regarding barbecue safety, emphasizing the importance of proper disposal of litter and cigarette butts to prevent fires. While enjoying the fine weather, picnics are recommended over disposable barbecues to avoid accidents like the one at Murlough beach. However, if individuals choose to use disposable barbecues, certain safety measures must be followed to ensure the well-being of all beachgoers.
Maybe it’s just me, but I feel like bringing disposable barbecues to the beach is not really the best idea. I mean, who wants to risk burning their feet on a hidden barbecue while enjoying a day out in the sun, right? The incident at Murlough beach serves as a stark reminder of the dangers these seemingly harmless items can pose. Kilkeel Coastguard also responded to the incident, highlighting the widespread concern for beach safety in Northern Ireland.
It’s essential for visitors to coastal areas to be mindful of the potential risks associated with disposable barbecues. Not only do they pose a threat to walkers and pets, but they also increase the likelihood of wildfires in these areas. The advice provided by the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service serves as a reminder to all beachgoers to prioritize safety and responsible behavior while enjoying the outdoors. By following these guidelines, individuals can help prevent accidents and ensure a safe environment for everyone at the beach.
