Three beaches in Elgin County have been declared unsafe for swimming. It is highly recommended that you steer clear of the Port Stanley Little Beach, Port Burwell Provincial Park Beach, and Port Burwell East Beach. A routine beach testing done by Southwestern Public Health earlier this week has determined that 3 of the 8 beaches and lakes in Elgin County have tested in the “Red” zone for bacteria.
The areas of water are tested for E. coli bacteria and a “Red” warning indicated that there is a high amount of fecal contamination present in the water from either animals, humans, or a combination of both. An E. coli presence in water can cause intestinal illness or infections of the eyes, ears, nose or throat if swam in.
The health unit is recommending that you avoid swimming in the listed beaches until a test reveals that the water is safe. If people wish to take a dip this weekend Springwater Conservation Area, Port Stanley Main Beach, and Port Glasgow have all received a “Green” rating and are safe for swimming.
