All New Jersey beaches reopen

OCEAN CITY, N.J. - August 30, 2008

Since the preliminary sweeps of the beaches in Avalon and Ocean City on Saturday morning found no medical waste, officials reopened all the beaches. A reverse 911 call went out this morning to residents down there alerting them of the opening.

Police in Ocean City released a statement saying: "The beaches have been thoroughly inspected by members of the Police Department, Fire Department, Public Works, Emergency Management and Beach Patrol. There have been no new medical waste items found during these inspections.

"The Beach Patrol and the Police Department will continue to monitor the situation and work to provide a safe environment for all of those persons wishing to use the beach and ocean.

"Everyone is again reminded to report any suspicious items to the Ocean City Police Department, at (609)399-9111. "

Six syringes were found after a beach inspection Friday morning in Avalon, forcing people away from the water there. Mayor Marty Palugi says they were insulin-type needles, and different from the medical waste that was discovered last weekend.

In Ocean City, officials found four needles and closed all beaches until 2:00 p.m.

There have been no injuries, but Cape May County health officials say the biggest concern is the risk of Tetanus.

"If anyone is stuck, they should contact their doctor immediately," said Kevin Thomas from the Health Department.

The state Attorney General's Office is investigating the Avalon incident, and has posted a $10,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.


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