A family holiday to Fort Lauderdale’s beautiful beaches ended on February 20 when Sloan Matterly, age 7, tragically passed away after a gap she had dug collapsed. Her nephew Maddox, years nine, was hospitalized for his injuries.
While Sloan’s death may seem like a monster injury, dust decline deaths are not uncommon. Accidents involving big pits or tunnels on the shore collapsing are reported across the country every year, ranging from broken bones to strangulation deaths. A scientist from Harvard Medical School conducted a study on gravel falls on beaches that found 52 documented instances over a 10-year period, 31 of which ended in casualties. While all rescuers work to educate the public about shore health beyond the ocean, some shores ban the use of hammers in an effort to reduce these events.
The openings measured between two and twelve feet deep and had diameters between two and fifteen feet according to the Harvard study. Between two and 21 years old were the subjects of the falls. While it may seem harmless, yet a small hole can lead to injuries. Sand, mainly wet sand, may be astonishingly heavy.
In the event of a decline, the weight of the gravel can make it difficult for people, especially young children, to proceed, open themselves, or breath due to the pressure on their chests. Dry dust is difficult to remove and simply inhaled, which can lead to breathing difficulties.
Learn MORE: Video: Coast Guard sees ‘ immigrant docking’ on Calif. shore: Report
These problems contributed to Sloan’s dying. According to ABC News, when rescue crew arrived on the shore at about 3 p.m., they discovered Sloan completely trapped in the sand while Maddox was partly buried. When the crumble occurred, the children apparently dug a hole that was between five and six feet deep. Sloan was indifferent when he was discovered despite spectators ‘ efforts to free the children and the swift action of rescue personnel. She was transported to a nearby hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
Lifeguards advise beachgoers not to drill any holes larger than one finger in size and no deeper than the leg of the group’s shortest member to prevent these accidents. Make sure any holes you drill are filled before leaving the beach so that everyone’s safety is at risk.
