Beachgoers may have to switch up their long weekend plans as three London-area beaches have been deemed unsafe for swimming.
Southwestern Public Health has announced that weekly water testing has found high levels of E.coli. bacteria at Port Stanley's little beach, Springwater Conservation Area, and Port Bruce. As a result swimming is not recommended at those three locations.
The health unit has posted signs at the beaches advising that entering the water could pose a health risk. E.coli bacteria is an indicator there is human and/or animal fecal contamination present in the water, the health unit said. If ingested, the bacteria-filled water could cause gastrointestinal illnesses. Symptoms include abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea. These bacteria may also cause infections of the eye, ear, nose, and/or throat when people swim in the water.
The beach advisories will remain in place until the next routine water sample is taken next Tuesday.
Port Stanley's Main and Erie Rest beaches, as well as those in Port Burwell, and Port Glasgow did not show harmful levels of bacteria and are safe for swimming.
Beach water status updates are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling 211, the province's free information service.
