Designated public beaches are sampled for E. coli bacteria each summer to help keep swimming conditions safe.
How Often is Beach Water Sampled?
- Water samples are usually taken once a week.
- Sampling may be reduced to once a month if the beach had good water quality last summer.
- Results are usually received 24 hours after sampling.
What is a Public Beach?
A public beach is:
- Owned and operated by a municipality.
- Open to everyone for swimming.
Only public beaches are included in the monitoring program.
Private Beaches and Waterfronts
- Only public beaches are monitored.
- Private beaches and waterfronts are not sampled.
- If you would like to test water quality at a private beach or waterfront, contact a laboratory on the Government of Ontario's List of Licensed Laboratories.
Conditions that Affect Water Quality
These conditions can increase bacteria levels in the water:
Rain
- Heavy rain can wash bacteria into the water.
- Wait 24-48 hours after heavy rain before swimming.
Cloudy water
- Cloudy water may have more bacteria.
- If you cannot see your feet in waist-deep water, bacteria levels may be high.
- Water can become cloudy when sand and mud are stirred up by wind, waves or a large number of swimmers.
Birds and animals
- Waste from birds and animals can raise bacteria levels in the water and sand.
- Don't feed wildlife. Feeding attracts more animals to the area, which leads to more feces.
- Pick up after your pet. Pet waste adds bacteria.
Warm shallow water and wet sand
- These conditions help bacteria grow.
- Always wash your hands or use hand sanitizer after playing in the sand or water.
Swallowing water with high bacteria can make you sick and may cause infections in your ears, eyes, nose, throat or skin.
LEGEND:
Safe to Swim (No Swimming Advisory)
- Bacteria levels are below 200 E. coli per 100mL.
- Water quality can change quickly due to weather and other factors. Always check conditions and make an informed decision before you swim.
Swimming Advisory is Posted
- Bacteria levels are above 200 E. coli per 100mL.
- There is a higher risk of skin, eye, ear, nose, or throat infections as well as stomach illness.
- If you choose to swim during an advisory avoid putting your head under or swallowing water.
- Advisories are lifted once bacteria levels return to safe levels.
- Stay Informed by visiting the list of current swimming advisories.
Beach is Closed
- A beach is closed when there is a serious health or safety risk, such as a sewage or chemical spill.
- Beach closures are rare.
*Provincial Park beach water quality data is available at Ontario Parks.
