Beaches located in Port Elgin and Southampton are currently deemed unsafe for swimming due to elevated bacteria levels.
Grey Bruce Public Health announced on Wednesday morning that the warning was issued after water tests revealed bacterial counts surpassing Ontario Ministry of Health guidelines.
The advisory will remain in place until subsequent samples indicate that bacterial levels have returned to a safe range for swimming and bathing, according to the health unit.
“While we know residents and visitors want to enjoy these final weeks of August and make the most of summer, we respectfully ask that everyone follow this advisory and avoid swimming at Port Elgin Main Beach and Southampton Beach until the postings are lifted,” Senior Public Health Manager Chimere Okoronkwo said in a news release. “Swimming in water with elevated levels can increase the risk of illness or infection.”
Earlier this week, public health collected samples as part of their summer beach monitoring program, which tests high-traffic beaches in Grey-Bruce for E. coli levels. Additional samples will be taken on Thursday.
Public health advises that both residents and visitors should avoid swimming or playing in the beach waters at both locations and should not allow their pets to drink or play in the water until the advisories are removed.
Even if beaches aren’t under an advisory, the health unit suggests people assess water conditions on-site and use their judgment before swimming or playing. It’s not recommended to swim within 24 to 48 hours after heavy rain or if feet aren’t visible in waist-deep water.
Water with bacteria levels above provincial standards can heighten the risk of skin, eye, ear, nose, throat infections, or gastrointestinal issues.
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