Ottawa beaches open despite E. coli concerns after thunderstorm

Some beachgoers are raising concerns about water quality at Ottawa beaches, with some beaches outside the city closed for swimming due to high E. coli levels.

Some beaches just outside of Ottawa are closed after Sunday’s thunderstorm because of high E. coli levels in the water.

But beaches in Ottawa remain open, even though they share the same body of water. Some beachgoers say the city isn’t doing enough to keep them safe.

“I think the city should be testing the water every day,” said Maureen Wainwright, who brought her family to Britannia Beach on Monday.

She says she’s not taking any chances today.

“I wouldn’t feel safe putting my face in the water, and when I get home, I’m going to give Tilly a bath,” she said.

The City of Ottawa announced this year that it would switch from daily E. coli testing at beaches to weekly testing. Ottawa Public Health says that’s in line with provincial standards.

Ottawa Public Health says there are ways to reduce the risk of ingesting water or getting sick.

“Keeping your head above water is often the best way to prevent ingesting any of the stuff,” said Matt Ruf with Ottawa Public Health.

 “We would also recommend that if somebody has a cut or a wound, that they may want to think about swimming another day or making sure that that doesn’t come in contact with the water either.”

Over in Arnprior, no swimming signs were posted warning people of high E. coli levels and to stay out of the water.

“We haven’t been here before. We read that it was really nice, which it is. But yes, it’s a little disappointing we can’t go in water,” said resident Shawn McCleery.

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