York Region is warning that four beaches in the area are unsafe for swimming after taking samples July 17.
The samples have indicated the levels of E. coli bacteria in the water are high enough to pose a greater risk to health and may cause illness.
The four beaches under advisory are Claredon Beach Park (Georgina), Sheppard Avenue Park (Georgina), Jacksons Point Harbour/Bonnie Park (Georgina), and Cedar Beach on Musselman's Lake (Whitchurch-Stouffville).
York Region Public Health monitors the water quality at designated public beaches with a minimum of five samples collected from each beach, usually twice a week and tested for bacteria.
A red sign at the beach indicates the beach’s status is “advisory” for having high levels of E. coli. York Region warns that if you cannot see your feet when standing in water up to your knees it may be unsafe to swim due to the level of bacteria in the water.
A blue sign at the beach indicates that the sample result shows the bacterial levels to be within acceptable limits and the beach's status is open. Blue signs on the beach also warn swimmers not to swim for two days after heavy rainfall. Bacteria can increase after heavy rainfalls and be harmful.
High levels of bacteria in the water can cause skin, ear, eye, nose and throat infections as well as stomach disorders, according to York Region Public Health.
For further information about recreational water quality in York Region, you can contact York Region Health Connection at 1-800-361-5653.
