Niagara Region Public Health has launched its annual beach water testing program as residents begin heading back to local beaches for the summer season.
The program runs from Victoria Day through Labour Day and includes regular testing for E. coli at 19 public beaches along Lake Ontario and Lake Erie.
Public Health says beach conditions can change quickly due to factors like heavy rain, strong waves, cloudy water and large numbers of birds, and is encouraging people to check online water testing results before swimming.
Officials are also reminding beachgoers to practice sun and water safety, wash their hands before eating, and help keep beaches clean by properly disposing of garbage and avoiding feeding wildlife.
(Written by: Matt Latour)