YOUR ENVIRONMENTBeaches

Beach Water Quality

There are many benefits to visiting the beautiful beaches in Chatham-Kent. However, there is a risk of illness if the water contains high levels of E. Coli bacteria. Water quality can change from day to day or even hour to hour depending on the weather and other conditions.

It is important that you make an informed decision about the beach’s water quality in real time before you go swimming. YOU are the best judge of whether the water is safe.  

Should I Go Swimming at the Beach?

How do you know if it’s safe to go swimming at the beach? Ask yourself these four questions before you head out for a swim at the beach: 

  • Has there been a heavy rainfall in the last 24-48 hours? 
  • Have conditions been really windy and wavy in the last 24-48 hours? 
  • Are there any other problems at the beach, like a large number of waterfowl (geese and ducks), dead fish, algae/scum, or dangerous debris? 
  • Is the water so cloudy that you cannot see your feet at adult waist depth? 

If you answered YES to any of the above questions, it is NOT SAFE to swim. The water may have high levels of bacteria that could increase your risk of skin, eye, ear, nose and throat infections or gastrointestinal illness. Always avoid swallowing beach water no matter how clear it is!

      Remember: you should never swim during a thunderstorm or when there are high winds and waves.  

      Beach Safety

      A cute dog is watching the sunset on a beach.

      Protect Yourself

      • Avoid swallowing lake water  
      • Avoid swimming for 48 hours after heavy rain 
      • Avoid swimming with cuts, wounds, or when you feel unwell  
      • Avoid swimming in murky water  
      • Practice good sun safety  
      • Swim safely 
      • After swimming, wash your hands before eating  
      • Shower after swimming 

      Beach Water Testing

      Every summer between June and September, we collect water samples from public beaches within Chatham-Kent. We test the water for the presence of E. Coli bacteria. The presence of high levels of E. Coli in beach water is a sign that the water may contain other harmful germs as well.

      Beach NameWater QualitySample Dates
      Clearville BeachLow levels of bacteria measuredJune 16, 2025
      Erieau Public BeachLow levels of bacteria measuredJune 16, 2025
      Getty's BeachLow levels of bacteria measuredJune 16, 2025
      Howard Township BeachLow levels of bacteria measuredJune 16, 2025
      Mitchell's Bay BeachHigh levels of bacteria measuredJune 16, 2025
      Pier Road BeachLow levels of bacteria measuredJune 16, 2025
      Bates BeachLow levels of bacteria measuredJune 16, 2025
       

      When is a Beach Closed?

      Blue Green Algae in the lake.

      Beach closures are rare. However, a beach may be closed due to: 

      • Chemical, oil, sewage, or other waste spills 
      • Blue-green algae bloom  
        • If you spot blue-green algae, report it online or by telephone to the Spills Action Centre 24/7. 
        • Fish or other wildlife die-off 
        • Safety hazards, such as sharp objects 

              Beach Signs

              Advisory Signs

              CK Public Health permanently posts advisory signs at all public beaches in Chatham-Kent warning that high levels of bacteria are often found in beach water and to use caution when swimming. 

              Beach Advisory Sign on a beach.

              Report a Concern

              If you think you have gotten sick because of beach water, contact your health care provider. 

              If you have concerns about beach water safety, contact us to make a report. A Public Health Inspector will follow-up with you Monday-Friday, between 8:30am-4:30pm. 

              Inspections & Enforcement

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