(Today’s Northumberland file photo)
Know before you go. Check before you swim. Stay safe this summer.
As summer draws near, the Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit (HKPR District Health Unit) is launching its 2025 Beach Water Monitoring Program to help protect the health of residents and visitors enjoying our local beaches this season.
From June 16 to August 29, 2025, Public Health Inspectors will partner with Public Health Ontario to monitor and test water quality at 54 public beaches across the County of Haliburton, the City of Kawartha Lakes, and Northumberland County. Weekly water samples will be tested for E. coli, a key indicator of water safety.
“This summer’s beach water monitoring program will help ensure the health and safety of swimmers across the district area,” says Bernie Mayer, Manager of Health Protection with the HKPR District Health Unit. “Regular testing allows us to identify potential risks early and keep the public informed so they can enjoy the beach with confidence.”
Why Beach Monitoring is Important
Swimming in contaminated water can expose people to harmful bacteria and viruses that cause gastrointestinal illness, skin rashes, eye or ear infections, and other health issues. Beaches can be contaminated by sources such as stormwater runoff, wildlife, or sewage leaks—often without visible signs of pollution.
Through regular testing, the HKPR District Health Unit helps reduce risk and empower people to make informed decisions before swimming at local beaches. Water samples are collected weekly and analyzed by a provincial laboratory for E. coli levels. Based on the results, each beach is assigned one of three risk levels:
• LOW RISK (Green): Safe for swimming.
• MODERATE RISK (Yellow): Swimming not recommended. If you choose to swim, avoid putting your
head underwater or swallowing water.
• HIGH RISK (Red): Beach is unsafe for swimming and considered closed due to high bacteria levels.
Weekly results are posted at hkpr.on.ca/BeachCheck and shared on social media @HKPRDHU. Signage will also be placed at beaches to clearly indicate water safety status.
Be Prepared Before You Head Out
Despite the risks, a 2022 survey revealed that 69% of beachgoers did not check water quality results before swimming. We encourage everyone to visit hkpr.on.ca/BeachCheck to view up-to-date beach conditions.
“Whether you’re planning a day at the lake with family or heading out for a swim on your own, taking a minute to check beach water quality can help prevent days lost to illness,” says Mayer. “This is a simple but powerful way to protect your health while enjoying local beaches.”
Learn More
For weekly beach water results and more information on how to reduce your risk when swimming in natural bodies of water, visit hkpr.on.ca/BeachCheck. Follow us: @HKPRDHU on Facebook, Instagram, and X (Twitter).
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
