Lakelands Public Health is launching its annual beach water monitoring program starting June 15, helping residents and visitors stay safe while enjoying local beaches across the region.
Throughout the summer, LPH staff will monitor water quality at 76 municipallyowned and operated public beaches across the County of Haliburton, City of Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland County, and the City and County of Peterborough.
Water samples are tested for E. coli bacteria, an indicator of potential contamination and increased risk of illness.
New this year, the health unit is installing updated signage at beaches across the region to make water conditions easier to understand. The signs use a clear, three-colour system: green: safe for swimming; yellow: swimming not advised; and red: beach closed.
“Regular beach water monitoring helps protect the health of our communities by identifying potential risks and sharing timely information,” said Bernie Mayer, environmental health manager with LPH.
Swimming in contaminated water can lead to gastrointestinal illness, skin rashes, and eye, ear, nose, or throat infections.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to check posted signage and LakelandsPH. ca/BeachCheck before swimming, and avoid entering the water during, and for at least 48 hours after, heavy rainfall.
In addition to regular monitoring, LPH reminds the public to watch for bluegreen algae blooms, which can pose health risks. Suspected blooms should be reported to the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) Spills Action Centre at 1-866-663- 8477.
Beach water test results are available online throughout the summer season, running until Aug 31.
