Delaware, Maryland officials shut down access to ocean
Access to the Atlantic Ocean from Rehoboth Beach to Ocean City, Md., has been restricted as medical waste continues to wash ashore along the coast.
Syringes, needles and pill bottles began appearing in the surf and on the beach Sept. 15, forcing officials in Ocean City, Fenwick Island and Dewey Beach to close access to the ocean. Delaware State Parks also announced medical waste was found between Fenwick Island and the Indian River Inlet.
Rehoboth Beach officials shut down access to the ocean the morning of Sept. 16. The closure was initially due to rough surf conditions, but also included medical waste that was found on the beach later in the day. Rehoboth officials advise beach visitors to wear closed-toe shoes, but the beach itself remains open.
The city issued a notice early Sept. 16, announcing the closure. A few hours later, after surveying the beach, the city announced it had found two exposed syringes along the beach – one was found north of Queen Street and the other near Pennsylvania Avenue. Several pieces of pill bottles and caps to medicine bottles were also found, said the update.
About 2 p.m., Sept. 16, Bethany Beach officials announced the closure of its beaches to swimming.
The City of Lewes also temporarily closed its beaches to swimming after hazardous medical waste washed ashore. The city issued a statement just before 4 p.m., Sept. 16. Signs were posted at the beaches as well.
Janet Reeves, Lewes parks and marina manager and assistant city manager, addressed the situation at the monthly parks and recreation commission meeting an hour after the closure went into effect.
“A small syringe that would be meant to administer oral medication washed up. We’re continuing to monitor the situation,” Reeves said.
The city’s statement urged visitors to exercise caution when visiting beaches for all other recreational activities.
“Call the city if you see anything hazardous and give the location,” Reeves said.
The city hall number during regular business hours is 302-645-7777.
Individuals who observe any medical waste should also contact DNREC’s environmental hotline at 800-662-8802.
Editor’s note: This story has been updated with new information.
