EON

Local Beaches Are Not Safe For Swimming Because Of Bacteria

Hamilton-Stormy weather and choppy water has led to a high level of E. coli bacteria to be stirred up in the water on Hamilton beaches, leading to a no swimming posting.

Over half of the beaches in Hamilton are currently not safe for swimming because of the high levels of bacteria and E. coli present.

Beaches at Confederation Park, Beach Boulevard, Bayfront Park and Van Wagner’s Beach are all deemed to have high levels of the bacteria, and are all posted with no swimming warning placards.

With the advent of storms and wind, waves are churned up that stir up the mud and animal waste on the beaches and dump it into the water.

Wading or walking on the beaches are likely safe enough, but getting the water in an open cut or accidentally swallowing it could lead to severe illness, diarrhea, vomiting and nausea.

Additionally beaches in the Halton region with unsafe levels of bacteria and posted against swimming are Oakville Coronation East and West Parks, Bronte Park and Prospect Park Old Beach in Halton Hills.

Over time the E. coli bacteria levels can decrease, but for now it is simply not safe to swim in these areas.