Sharp Objects Commonly Found on Beaches

Beachgoers should watch for these hazards:

• Broken Shells: Razor clam, mussel, oyster fragments – extremely sharp edges.
• Rocks/Stones: Flaked chert, quartz, volcanic glass (obsidian), coral rubble.
• Glass Shards: Bottle, jar, lightbulb fragments – frosted by tumbling (sea glass) but still sharp.
• Driftwood Splinters: Weathered wood with protruding nails, screws, jagged ends.
• Fishing Gear: Hooks (baited/barbed), lures, gaffs, leader wire.
• Metal Debris: Nails, screws, bolts, bottle caps, pull tabs, can shards, wire.
• Sea Urchin Spines: Brittle, needle-like, break off in skin (venomous in some species).
• Plastic Shards: Degraded hard plastic, crisp packets.
• Bone/Teeth: Fish, mammal remains.

Safety: Wear water shoes; shuffle feet in shallow water; supervise children; carry tweezers/first aid.