If you're heading out of town to a beach for the weekend, make sure you've done your homework.
The beach is a great place to escape for a few days and relax and swim, but take proper precaution to ensure the water is safe.
Algoma Public Health has issued a swimming advisory for the following beaches:
- Point des Chenes beach in Sault Ste. Marie,
- Old Mill beach also located in Blind River, and
- Sellers Park in Blind River
The test results of water samples taken the week of July 6, 2015 exceeded the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care bacteriological guidelines for safe swimming/bathing.
The medical officer of health advises that these beaches may have been unsafe for swimming at the time the sample was collected.
Swimmer’s itch has also been reported at Harmony Beach located north of Sault Ste. Marie. Swimmers are advised to proceed with caution.
To reduce the likelihood of developing swimmer's itch:
- Do not swim in areas where swimmer's itch is a known problem.
- Do not swim near or wade in marshy areas where snails are commonly found.
- Towel dry or shower immediately after leaving the water.
- Do not attract birds (e.g. by feeding them) to areas where people are swimming.
Before swimming, take into consideration the past day’s weather and the current conditions of the beach. The public is encouraged to visit the Beach Warnings section on Algoma Public Health’s website to view an interactive map of the beaches sampled and any current warnings or postings.
Swimming advisories do not close the beach or stop people from swimming. They let swimmers know about the water conditions the day the sample was taken. Swimming in water with high levels of E. coli can cause skin, eye, nose and throat infections, as well as stomach illness.
To reduce your risk:
- avoid swallowing beach water
- towel off after a swim
- shower once at home
