Beachgoers who have left dangerous disposable barbecue equipment laying around resulting in injuries to others have been labelled "irresponsible" as measures have been introduced in an attempt to clamp down on history repeating itself.
Fifteen new red bins especially for disposable BBQs have been set up in Swansea at popular council-owned beaches in time for the Whitsun half-term, most of which are already in place and being used. The authority says it means "there is no excuse for people to leave their litter and rubbish lying around at the beach this summer."
The locations where the bins can be found are as follows: Langland Bay (two), Port Eynon, Horton, Rotherslade, Locations on Swansea Bay between West Pier and Mumbles, including: Point playground car park entrance to beach, top of the Civic Centre steps near the beach, Bay View slip, steps by Secret car park opposite Victoria Park, near the Secret, Brynmill Lane Slip, just above Clyne stream near the footgolf attraction, Blackpill, one at each end of the picnic area.
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Swansea Council's cabinet member for community, Cyril Anderson, said it is the responsibility of those who head for the beach to dispose of their waste responsibly and take it home with them if the bins are full. And he added it would help keep everyone safe on the beach but especially children who might not notice a dumped disposable BBQ lying around or not realise how hot they can be.
Mr Anderson said: "Anyone who thinks that it's OK to bury bottles, BBQs or any other waste in the sand on a day out is simply wrong. This irresponsible and antisocial behaviour can present serious hazards to other beach users. We've invested thousands of pounds installing permanent BBQ waste bins and associated signage at places like Port Eynon, Horton, Caswell and Langland with more to come at Rotherslade and along Swansea Prom where five have been added already.
"So there's no longer any excuse for anyone just dumping their disposable BBQs on the beach as they head for home. BBQs and charcoal retain their heat for hours after they've been finished with and can cause serious burns for people who accidentally step on them."
The council's cleansing team is also putting up signs on beaches urging people to "do the right thing" and get rid of their disposable BBQs responsibly. Mr Anderson added: "Yes, we have bins in place, yes there are signs on beaches warning people about litter and yes the council is actively cleaning-up beaches. Whatever people bring to the beach with them, they are ultimately responsible for taking their litter and waste home or by using the bins provided by the council. People should do the right thing every time."
