Don’t know how to help keep our beaches clean? 

Let’s start with: If you take it to the beach, take it back with you. Throw your trash in the cans provided. Don’t leave behind plastic bottles, food wrappers, diapers, or even cigarette butts.

There are some things not allowed on Alabama beaches, such as glass containers, metal shovels, litter, tents or structures larger than 10 feet by 10 feet, fireworks and fires. And overnight camping is prohibited. 

The Alabama Coastal Cleanup is held each year in September. It’s a great way to teach your kids to do their part in keeping our beaches and waterways clean. It’s also eye-opening. When you mark each time you pick up a cigarette butt, plastic wrapper or metal can tab, you realize how little things add up to a big mess. 

Scout troops, youth groups and other civic groups make regular excursions to clean the beach. Why not get involved in one of those efforts, or start your own? 

Use these tips, though, when cleaning the beach:

  • Wear comfortable shoes, a hat and sunscreen.
  • Drink plenty of water.
  • Be sure an adult supervises children at all times.
  • Don’t try to move dangerous or heavy items. 
  • Use gloves and a plastic bag for collecting trash.

Really, it’s simple. If you see something littering our beautiful beaches, take ownership of it and toss it in the trash. Let’s all do our part to keep a clean island!