The city of Orillia is asking residents to be cautious before heading for a dip in Couchiching Beach. According to the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU), a water advisory has been issued due to a higher-than-normal bacteria count. Although the advisory is in effect, the beach is not closed. The city says lifeguards are off duty during a swim advisory and swimmers are cautioned to swim at their own risk. The SMDHU says swimming in bacteria-infested water could lead to an infection or minor irritations. Residents are asked to especially avoid dunking their heads underwater or swallowing the water.
