Are you hitting the beach this summer for some much needed rest and relaxation?
If you are, make sure that you are informed about the condition of the beach you are visiting and the condition of the water. The water at beaches normally looks clean and safe, but there are a few potential dangers that we need to pay attention to:
- Look for storm drains (pipes that drain polluted water from streets) along the beach. Don't swim near them.
- Look for trash and other signs of pollution such as oil slicks in the water. These kinds of pollutants may indicate the presence of disease causing microorganisms that may also have been washed into the water.
- Avoid swimming after a heavy rain. Pollution in beach water is often much higher during and immediately after rainstorms because water draining into the beach may be carrying sewage from over¬flowing sewage treatment systems.
Help reduce health risks to you and your family by remembering to look for the above signs that may mean the water is unsafe.
Keep your beach trip fun and safe!
Published with permission from BGI Systems. Source.