Alejandra Drullard Rosario
Across many Maryland beaches, officials temporarily banned swimming and any water activities, Sunday Sept. 16. Sunday morning officials discovered medical waste, cigar tips and feminine hygiene products along the shore. Some beaches have just restricted swimming while others have completely restricted entry into the area.
In an email, Ocean City’s spokeswoman Jessica Waters stated, “The debris is/was a mix of general trash and medical waste, including syringes, wood particles and rubbish.” These items can be of great danger to the public and very unsanitary to come in contact with. Waters said, “At this time, we do not know the source of the waste; however, we will work closely with public health authorities, and our state and local partners to investigate the matter further.” This situation has raised serious concerns among beachgoers and residents. As a precaution, authorities began restricting swimming when they discovered the waste in Ocean City and Assateague Island. Beaches have remained closed since the incident, until further notice, leaving many families disappointed and worried. It’s important for everyone to stay informed and safe while these investigations take place.
In an email with “The Baltimore Banner” Gregg Bortz, a spoke person for the Maryland Department of Natural Resources shared that park rangers in Assateague Island had found more needles and other sorts of debris there on Monday, after initially finding needs and different colored needle caps on Sunday. Maryland and other states have laws and regulations about the proper disposal of medical waste. These items can contain infectious diseases that might lead to an outbreak across the state or, even worse, beyond Maryland’s borders. If not handled correctly, this waste can put the health of many people at risk. It’s essential for everyone to follow these rules to keep our communities safe and prevent any potential health crises. Proper disposal helps protect not just beachgoers but also local wildlife and the environment.
In my opinion beaches should be a safe place where families and friends gather for a nice getaway. Especially when summer is coming to an end, families want to get in one last beach trip with their children or friends. Beaches are a place where people go to unwind, swim and enjoy the sun. They should be clean and welcoming. It has always been known that Ocean City and other beaches are not the cleanest, water wise. However, to think that waste, specifically medical waste, can be in the water and on the shore is a complete shock.
I personally love the beach and see it as a perfect escape from the stress of everyday life. The sound of the waves, the feel of the sand, and the warmth of the sun help me relax and recharge. I want everyone to experience this joy without fear of health risks. Beaches should be places of fun, laughter, and safety. It’s essential for local governments and communities to work together to keep our beaches clean and safe, so everyone can enjoy their time by the ocean whenever they please. We all have a right to enjoy the beauty of nature without worries.
Comments