Three area beaches declared unsafe for swimming

NEWS RELEASE

ALGOMA PUBLIC HEALTH

************************* Algoma Public Health posts area beaches unsafe for swimming

August 17, 2010 - Algoma Public Health has posted the following beaches as unsafe for swimming:

- Havilland Beach, located on Highway 17 North, Havilland Township

- Harmony Beach, located on Highway 17 North, Havilland Township

- Rock Lake, located off of Highway 638.

The test results of water samples taken August 16, 2010, exceeded the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care bacteriological guidelines for safe swimming/bathing.

The high levels of bacteria in the water may pose a risk to your health.

The Medical Officer of Health advises that these beaches are unsafe for swimming at this time.

These beaches are posted with signs notifying the public of the advisory.

When sample results return to safe parameters, the public will be notified.

Algoma Public Health would like to remind area residents that heavy rainfall, high winds, high numbers of swimmers, waterfowl and warm water temperatures can all increase the number of bacteria in beach water.

High levels of bacteria may pose a risk to your health.

Public beaches in the Algoma district are tested weekly for E.coli and posted when they do not meet the Ontario Ministry of Health standards.

Before swimming, take into consideration the past day’s weather and the current conditions of the beach.

The public is encouraged to visit the Beach Warnings section on Algoma Public Health’s website to view an interactive map of the beaches sampled and any current warnings or postings.

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