How safe is beach sand?
How safe is beach sand? Beach and riverbed sand is naturally low in dust and hardly gives off any residue when touched. This is because even though the sand is composed of crystalline silica it does not contain the dangerous dust.
Why is beach sand so fine?
For millions of years in the Gulf of Mexico and along the coast the constant grinding and pulverizing motion of the waves have broken down the sand. That creates a situation where the sand becomes so fine it doesn't take more than a small breeze to displace it on the beach. This is called “saltating”.
How do you know if a beach is clean?
To find information on the current water quality for a certain beach, contact your local health department or check with your state, tribe or territory beach contact.