SIMCOE MUSKOKA – With summer weather arriving and more people heading to local beaches, the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) is reminding residents and visitors to assess current beach conditions, such as water clarity, weather and any visible concerns before entering the water. Beachgoers should also check the SMDHU beach water advisory webpage for the latest information on swimming advisories at public beaches.

Throughout the summer, more than 75 public beaches across Simcoe Muskoka are routinely monitored and tested for E. coli bacteria. Elevated levels of E. coli can increase the risk of illness and infection for swimmers. When bacteria levels exceed Ontario's recreational water quality guidelines, a swimming advisory is issued and remains in effect until follow-up testing confirms the water is safe for swimming. In rare cases where a significant health or safety risk exists, a beach may be closed.

Because beach water quality can change quickly due to weather and environmental conditions, recent test results may not always reflect conditions at the time of your visit.

"We're really encouraging people to check in before they get in," said Karen Kivilahti, program manager, Safe Water. "While our testing provides important information, beachgoers should always assess current conditions and make informed decisions before entering the water."

Heavy rainfall can wash bacteria and other contaminants, including animal waste and garbage, into lakes and along shorelines. To reduce the risk of illness, SMDHU recommends avoiding swimming for 24 to 48 hours following significant rainfall. If you do enter the water, avoid submerging your head and never swallow lake water.

Strong winds and large numbers of swimmers can also affect water quality by stirring up sand and sediment, which may increase bacteria levels. A simple rule of thumb is: if you cannot see your feet while standing in waist-deep water, bacteria levels may be higher than usual.

Warm, shallow water and wet sand can create conditions that allow bacteria such as E. coli to multiply more easily. Beach visitors are encouraged to wash their hands or use hand sanitizer regularly, especially before eating.

In addition to bacterial testing, beaches are monitored for environmental conditions that may affect public health, including blue-green algae blooms, floating debris, excessive weed growth and cloudy water.

Before heading to the beach, check the latest advisories and beach water quality information on the SMDHU website at smdhu.org/beaches. For more information about beach water safety, contact the health unit at 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520, Monday to Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.