DHEC encouraging beachgoers to safely enjoy, protect SC beaches
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COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)– As Summer arrives, the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control is encouraging residents and visitors to protect SC beaches while they enjoy fun in the sun.
While at the beach, DHEC reminds beachgoers to protect their own safety and the safety of others by being aware of potential ocean hazards like rip currents, water quality-related swimming advisories, and other risks.
Residents and visitors are also reminded that SC beaches are home to numerous plant and animal species, some of which are identified as threatened or endangered.
The agency’s Keep off the Dunes Program encourages preservation of the state’s dune resources through a collaborative partnership to enhance public awareness of sensitive dune environments.
Residents and tourists visiting the coast can take steps to help protect the state’s beaches, dunes, coastal waters, and the species that rely on these critical resources.
- Be mindful when walking past the dunes. Stick to existing paths and walkovers to prevent dune disturbance.
- May through October is sea turtle nesting season. Be aware of South Carolina Ordinances Providing Protection to Sea Turtles.
- Reduce the amount of plastic you take to the beach: choose reusable items over single-use items and leave nothing behind.
- Recycle monofilament fishing line, which can entangle animals.
- Organize or participate in a local beach cleanup and report your data using DHEC’s MyCoast South Carolina application.
