The Sand Safe campaign is launching this month to help keep Falmouth's beaches safe and clean.

The problems addressed include open fires, safe use and disposal of barbecues, dog fouling and littering.

Falmouth Town Council and Safer Falmouth are behind the campaign.

Sarah Walker, environmental officer for the town council, said: “We are asking for everyone’s help in keeping Falmouth’s beaches safe for residents, visitors and marine life.

"Through the campaign we hope to share knowledge about how to enjoy the beaches in a safe way, which is particularly important during this challenging time. By working together to keep the sand safe, we can ensure a safer, cleaner and greener environment for everyone.”

An essential part of local life, Falmouth’s beaches offer a spectacular environment for recreation and support the town’s tourist economy, and problems like open fires, dog fouling and littering can threaten the public’s safety and could lead to the loss of a beaches’ Blue Flag status.

Sand Safe, the new campaign from Falmouth Town Council and Safer Falmouth, aims to improve beach safety by promoting these three simple rules:

1. No open fires on the beaches

2. Clean up after your dog and adhere to summer dog restrictions

3. Bin your litter and leave only footprints. No open fires on the beaches. BBQs are permitted on some beaches but must be disposed of in the bins provided.

The campaign provides more explanation on the reasons behind the rules.

"A fire may sound like fun but burning material can cause serious health issues. Screws in timber, sharp metal grill plates and embers can cause injury to adults, children and animals. Fires can cause plastic ‘pebbles’- a combination of melted plastic, shingle and seaweed- that can enter the food chain with devastating consequences for wildlife.

"Stick to a barbecue where permitted, follow the safety instructions provided, never leave a barbecue unattended, keep children and pets away and let the BBQ cool completely preferably using water or sand before moving it and disposing of it carefully and responsibly in the bins provided.

"Never bury a barbecue in the sand as this could cause serious injury.

"Clean up after your dog and adhere to summer dog restrictions.

"We are a nation of dog lovers, but we need to look after our animals responsibly to protect our beaches and the community.

"The average dog produces a staggering 20 stone of waste annually, and if left on the beaches this damages the environment and poses a health risk, particularly to children. Make sure you pick it up, and don’t leave the bags on the beach.

"Bin your litter and leave only footprints.

"A day at the beach often involves a food and fun, but it is important to use the bins on the beach or take everything home with you to recycle.

"Litter, particularly plastic, will go straight into the ocean and will begin harming wildlife right away, entangling animals and entering the food chain.

"Be mindful of what you bring to the beach, and make sure you take everything home with you afterwards."

Please report any concerns about safety on our beaches to Falmouth Town Council at info@falmouthtowncouncil.com and Cornwall Council at publicprotection@cornwall.gov.uk, online at cornwall.gov.uk/report-it or over the phone on 0300 1234 212.