How many people are injured by beach umbrellas?

Although going to the beach is meant for relaxation, beach umbrellas, if not properly secured, can indeed become a potential safety hazard. Every year, many people are injured while enjoying the sunshine.

Here's what you need to know about injuries caused by beach umbrellas:

① Common Causes of Injury

Strong Winds: This is the main reason. The weather at the beach changes quickly, and a sudden strong gust of wind can uproot an unsecured beach umbrella. When these umbrellas tumble in the air, the metal frame and sharp base act like flying projectiles, easily hitting people nearby.
Improper Installation: Many people simply stick the umbrella into the sand without using a proper sand anchor or burying it deep enough. Uneven force can cause the umbrella pole to wobble or even collapse, hitting tourists.
Aging Components: Umbrellas used for extended periods in seawater and salt spray may experience rusting and breakage of metal joints. Finger injuries from being pinched while opening or closing the umbrella are also common.

② Main Types of Injuries

Abrasions and Scratches: This is the most common type of injury. Being struck by a flying umbrella canopy or metal frame usually results in long scratches or bruises.
Impact Injuries: If a heavy umbrella pole directly hits the head or body, it can lead to significant swelling, dizziness, or even more serious injuries.
Accidental Puncture Wounds: Because many beach umbrellas have very sharp bases for easy insertion into the sand, this sharp point becomes very dangerous if the umbrella is blown across the ground by the wind.

③ How to Avoid Becoming a Victim

Deep Burial and Anchoring: Never underestimate the power of the wind. Use a rotating spiral anchor and bury the umbrella pole deep enough in the sand.
Observe Wind Direction: Tilt the beach umbrella slightly towards the wind to use the wind force to press the umbrella against the ground, rather than letting the wind lift it from underneath.
Put Away the Umbrella Promptly: If you notice the wind significantly increasing, or see other people's umbrellas starting to wobble, the safest thing to do is to immediately put away your own beach umbrella.
Although these types of accidents sound worrying, most can be completely avoided by taking a few extra minutes to properly secure your beach umbrella.