Beachgoers asked to refrain from swimming at 6 HRM beaches due to bacteria
Residents in Halifax have been advised to stay out of the water at several beaches after recent test results showed bacteria levels that exceed Health Canada guidelines.
Halifax Regional Municipality says bacteria levels are higher than what’s recommended by Health Canada
Residents in Halifax have been advised to stay out of the water at six municipal beaches after recent test results showed bacteria levels that exceed Health Canada guidelines.
The Halifax Regional Municipality said Thursday in a news release that recreational water advisories are in place at:
- Lake Echo Beach, Lake Echo.
- Springfield Beach, Sackville.
- Albro Lake Beach, Dartmouth.
- Birch Cove Beach, Dartmouth.
- Penhorn Beach, Dartmouth.
- Shubie Park Beach, Dartmouth.
The release said HRM staff regularly test the waters at these municipal supervised beaches during the summer months.
“High bacteria levels can be caused by a number of factors, including dogs, birds, wildlife and impacts from climate change, such as high temperatures, lower water levels and recent heavy rainfall,” the release said.
While the advisories are in effect, recreational use of the beaches will be at the risk of the individual. Lifeguards will remain at the sites to advise against swimming.
Staff will continue to monitor the bacteria levels at the beaches, and residents will be advised when levels no longer exceed Health Canada guidelines.
