

other public health hazards are identified.the average of the past several sample results (also called a “geometric mean”) exceeds 200 E.A beach advisory will also be considered when: Coli or 175 Enterococci per sample is received, as studies indicate there is an elevated risk associated with these bacterial levels. When are Advisories Posted on Beaches?īeach advisories are recommended by Island Health when a sample result of over 1000 E. coli is used at fresh water beaches and Enterococci is used at salt water beaches. The indicator bacteria used depends on the type of water sampled. Indicator bacteria are used to identify the presence of fecal contamination and provide an indication of the potential risk associated with swimming in that location. VERY LOW – Not sampled unless EHO believes it is necessary to do soīeach sampling generally begins in mid-May, so that results are available in advance of May Long weekend, and runs through until Labour Day. Once beaches have been assessed, a recommended sampling frequency is made based on the following: How often are beaches sampled?Įach beach is assessed by an Environmental Health Officer (EHO) based on usage, previous sample results and potential sources of contamination. How are beaches chosen for sampling?Įnvironmental Health Officers select beaches where use levels may warrant regular sampling and apply a standardized risk assessment tool to determine whether sampling should be recommended and to set the recommended frequency. Swimming in contaminated water can result in increased risk of ear, nose and throat infections or gastrointestinal illnesses. Residential Hot tubs and Pools: Safe Water Qualityįrequently Asked Questions Why monitor beaches?īeaches are monitored to protect swimmers from illnesses that may be linked to unacceptable levels of bacteria.Residential Hot tubs and Pools: Health and Safety Tips.Beach Advisory - Indicates the water may be unsafe for swimming Current Beach Advisories: Name It will be updated once we have new results to support any decisions to lift an existing advisory or confirm that an advisory should remain in effect. The Current Beach Advisories table below is based on the most recent results available from Fall of 2021. South Vancouver Island Beach Sampling Results North Vancouver Island Beach Sampling ResultsĬentral Vancouver Island Beach Sampling Results The reports below will be updated as new results are received. Beach advisories are posted where monitoring has shown swimming is not recommended due to poor water quality.īeach sampling for the summer of 2022 is set to resume in May of 2022. X-Rays, MRIs, and Other Medical ImagingĮnvironmental Health Officers assess and inspect public/commercial swimming pools and hot tubs for compliance with health standards and for the health and safety of you and your family.Įnvironmental Health Officers also work with local governments and agencies providing oversight of beaches to monitor water quality at popular public beaches.Įach summer, Environmental Health Officers review water quality results from samples taken at popular beach areas.



Home Care, Assisted Living & Long-Term Care.James Bay Sulphur Dioxide Monitoring Program - Health Risk Guide.
