Editor:
I am sad to report that gone are the days when one could walk Chaster Beach and Florence Bay Beach (the bay from Chaster Park to Camp Byng) along Ocean Beach Esplanade, Elphinstone, safely, without much worry of hazard and injury.
Over the past week, I have put out hot beach fires left over from the night before, picked up broken glass from two shattered bottles left in a fire ring, and collected large screws, enough to fill a small bag, that were left in a fire ring and in scrap wood left in and around the fire ring. Each of these is a hazard to the many people exploring the beach: children playing, pets being walked, others beachcombing, swimming, playing and enjoying the view.
As the weather warms and more and more people are enjoying this accessible beach, it is critical for us all to be mindful of how we use and enjoy the area. Bonfires are best made below the most recent high tide line and extinguished with water – bring a bucket and make sure the fire is cooled before leaving. If there is a fire ring already set, use it again. Make sure that larger logs do not get involved in the fire as these are far more difficult to extinguish and can lead to further beach destruction. Follow the “pack it in pack it out” rule – avoid bringing glass bottles and make sure all bottles, cans, garbage, toys and clothing are carried back home. If you are bringing construction scrap wood to burn then make sure it is nail and screw free and that it gets burned or taken home rather than left to litter the beach.
It is to everyone’s benefit, both our safety and enjoyment, to better care for the beach along Ocean Beach Esplanade. My hope is that everyone reminds their neighbours, friends and family who enjoy the beach to follow these simple, time-tested guidelines.
Sally Thicke, Elphinstone
