While the Metro Vancouver weather forecast calls for soaring temperatures during the region's first heat wave, health officials warn swimmers to think twice about where they take a dip.
Fraser Health is warning locals to stay out of the water on White Pine Beach in Port Moody due to unsafe levels of E. coli.
The regional health authority notes that the beach will not be suitable for swimming since a sample from the water came back showing 263 MPN/100mLs for E. coli.
Fraser Health notes that, "the Canadian Recreational Water Quality Guidelines recommends a level of ≤ 200 E. coli bacteria per 100 ml of water for primary contact recreational activities." As a result, when the water exceeds 200 E. coli bacteria per 100 ml, an assessment must be made to determine the possible health risks.
In addition to swimming, water activities where the whole body or the face and trunk are frequently immersed or the face is frequently wetted by spray, and where it is likely that some water will be swallowed, should be avoided. This includes surfing, waterskiing, whitewater canoeing/rafting/kayaking, windsurfing or subsurface diving.
Thankfully, almost every other beach is safe for swimming in the region. Have a look Fraser Health's beach water quality map to determine whether a body of water is safe for public swimming.
If you are feeling sick, stay at home and away from others. Always maintain physical distancing recommendations and keep two metres apart.
