Avoid swimming at two public beaches in Halton
In Ontario, the safety of beach water is a top priority for public health agencies and local authorities. The Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care has set a standard for recreational water quality, with a maximum limit of 200 E. coli counts per 100 millilitres of water[1][2][4].
Beaches are regularly tested and monitored to ensure they meet this standard. If bacterial counts exceed 200 E. coli per 100 mL, authorities may post warnings or close beaches to protect public health[1][2][3][4]. For example, Mooney’s Bay Beach in Ottawa was recorded with E. coli levels above 200 per 100 mL, leading to caution advisories[1][4].
However, there are other factors that can contribute to a beach being considered unsafe for swimming. Weather conditions, runoff, pollution, spills, smells, garbage, sharp debris, and dead fish can all pose a risk. It is recommended to avoid swimming when it's raining, the water is wavy or cloudy, there are lots of birds, or for two days after a big storm[5].
As of Aug. 2 at 9 a.m., Brant Street and Bronte Beach Park are advised to avoid swimming due to high E. coli levels[6]. On the other hand, Coronation Park West Beach in Oakville (1426 Lakeshore Road West), Prospect Park Old Beach (location unspecified), Beachway Beach in Burlington (1094 Lakeshore Road), Lakeside Park Beach in Oakville (144 Front St.), and South Shell Park Beach in Oakville (3376 Lakeshore Road West) have all tested safe for swimming[6].
It is important to note that collecting, transporting, and testing beach water for E. coli can take a day or more. Public beaches are also monitored for blue-green algae, which can be highly toxic to humans, dogs, and other animals[7].
Consuming E. coli can cause serious illness, including stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting. High levels of E. coli may indicate the presence of other harmful organisms, such as those causing skin rashes and infections in the eyes, ears, nose, and throat[8].
Therefore, it is crucial to stay informed about the water quality of your local beaches and follow public health guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable swimming experience.
[1] Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care. (2021). Recreational Water Quality Guideline for E. coli in Ontario. [2] Ontario Parks. (2021). Beach Advisories. [3] Toronto Public Health. (2021). Beach Water Quality. [4] City of Ottawa. (2021). Beach Water Quality. [5] City of Toronto. (2021). Swimming Safety. [6] City of Burlington. (2021). Beach Water Quality. [7] Health Canada. (2021). Blue-green algae. [8] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Recreational Water Illnesses.
- In the city of Toronto, adhering to safety guidelines is essential for health-and-wellness, as it could prevent exposure to harmful organisms in the water, such as E. coli and those causing skin rashes and infections.
- The water quality of local beaches, including Brant Street and Bronte Beach Park in Oakville, should be checked regularly, as high E. coli levels can signal potential health risks, potentially leading to serious illnesses like stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting.
- To ensure a safe and pleasant health-and-wellness experience at the beach, residents should be aware of factors that can contribute to unsafe conditions, such as weather, pollution, and runoff, and follow recommended precautions, such as avoiding swimming during or after significant rainfall or when the water is wavy or cloudy.
