Swimming in Virginia’s natural waters can be a great way to cool down and have some fun this summer, but don’t put on your swimsuit and dive in just yet. To ensure a healthy and safe trip to the beach, be aware of what you can do to protect yourself from the health risks involved with swimming in local rivers, lakes and oceans.
The bacteria levels of over 40 different beaches on the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean are tested regularly between the months of May and September. Bacteria levels that appear higher than normal indicate that the water may be contaminated by human or animal waste, which can in turn cause gastro-intestinal illnesses and ear, eye, skin, and respiratory infections in swimmers.
Beaches that are unsafe to swim in are labeled with a swimming advisory sign. Be mindful of swimming advisories and make sure to avoid swimming in waters that are currently under an advisory. The current water quality of specific beaches in Virginia can be found on the Virginia Department of Health’s beach monitoring website.
Other important steps you can take to prevent illnesses from recreational waters include:
- Avoid swimming anywhere near pipes and storm drains which can release polluted water from the stormwater system. This polluted runoff may contain bacteria from pet waste, chemicals from lawn fertilizer or pesticide or oil and grease from nearby streets and parking lots.
- Wait several days after a heavy rain event before swimming in natural waters. During heavy rains untreated wastewater, animal waste, and other pollutants can be washed into natural waters that are used for recreation.
- Do not leave pet waste, dirty diapers, or trash near waterways or beaches. Always find an appropriate receptacle for disposing of trash and litter at the beach.
Be a good steward while enjoying our waterways this summer! It’s best for your health and the health of our waterways.
Blog submitted by askHRgreen expert Suzanne Dyba, Water Monitoring Coordinator for James City County.