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North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit
Beaches and Pools
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Testing Beach Water
There are 28 public beaches tested for E.coli in the Health Unit district. Water samples are taken regularly by Health Unit staff during the summer.
Water quality is affected by rainfall, wave action, water and air temperatures, water fowl, storm water outflows, industrial waste discharges, septic system discharges, and agricultural runoff.
You can't tell by looking at the water if it has E. coli. If the water has high levels of bacteria, you may get ear, nose, eye, and throat irritations, and stomach disorders.
If you or someone you know is ill after swimming at a public beach or complains of swimmer's itch, please call the Health Unit at 705-474-1400 extension 5400 or 1-800-563-2808.
Test results for monthly tested beaches as of August 12, 2020 |
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Open = E. coli bacteria levels are within acceptable range at the time of sampling. Posted = E. coli bacteria levels are high. It is not safe to swim in the water. Closed = A health hazard exists and patrons are not permitted access to the beach area. Not Tested = For various reasons such as a harmful algal bloom is present, high water levels and/or debris are in the area.
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What are the signs? |
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Unsafe for swimming
This means E. coli bacteria levels are high. It is not safe to swim in the water
Rainfall warning
For 48 hours after a heavy rainfall, the E. coli levels may increase. Stay out of the water after it rains.
Swimmer's itch
This sign means swimmer's itch can be a problem at this beach. Swimmer's itch may be found in some lakes during the warm swimming season (July, August). The itch is a reaction to a parasite in the water that causes a rash. Swimmer's itch is not a public health risk. Most cases of swimmer's itch do not require medical attention.
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