Download Beach Safety - Government of Manitoba

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Escherichia coli

Extensive sampling for E. coli in beach sand and water on Lake Winnipeg is underway
again this year and follows similar work completed each year since 2003.

Research has shown that wet sand underlying a number of Lake Winnipeg beaches
contains E. coli bacteria that can be washed into swimming water when water levels rise
and flood beaches.

Advanced testing known as DNA ribotyping is being used to identify sources of
contamination. Results over the last several years indicate that approximately 63 per cent
is due to animals and five per cent arises from humans. Approximately 30 per cent of the
results cannot be attributed to a particular source. Of the animal component, the greatest
identifiable source can be attributed to shorebirds and geese.

Advisory signs have been posted at Sandy Bar, Spruce Sands, Gimli, East Grand, Patricia
and Sunset beaches.

Although the risk of illness is small, advisory signs help to remind bathers of additional
precautions they can follow to reduce the risk of bather-related illness at beaches where
E. coli levels fluctuate regularly. Since bacteria levels can fluctuate at these beaches, the
advisory signs will remain posted for the duration of the summer.
Protect The Beach - Protect Yourself

The following beach hygiene tips will help keep Manitoba beaches clean:
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Don’t feed the shore birds. Gulls can quickly become accustomed to eating and
residing on the beach.
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Don’t litter or discard food on the beach. Dispose of trash in proper receptacles.
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Clean up after your pets. Pets are not allowed on provincial park beaches and on most
beaches in rural municipalities.
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Change diapered children frequently and away from the water’s edge.
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Never bury waste in the sand.

Most swimmers will not become ill when E. coli bacteria levels are elevated above the
recreational water quality guideline. However, the possibility of illness increases with rising
levels of bacteria.

Manitobans can safely enjoy the province’s beaches and are advised to keep a few things
in mind when at the beach:
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avoid swimming with an open cut or wound, or if you’re experiencing illness;
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stay away from the water if you are experiencing digestive or intestinal problems;
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avoid swallowing lake water when playing or swimming;
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wash your hands before handling food; and
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on Lake Winnipeg, reduce exposure to the lake water if water levels are high and the
wind is coming from the north.
Algae

Algae are a sign of a healthy lake since they provide food and oxygen for many aquatic life
forms. However, too much algae will form floating clumps or scum and can cause waterquality problems for drinking water and recreation. During bloom conditions, the water
sometimes looks like thick pea soup and may emit a strong, unpleasant odour.

Algae blooms can produce toxins that can be harmful to the liver or nervous system if large
amounts of water are swallowed. Drinking water containing algae can also cause an upset
stomach and diarrhea, and external exposure to algae blooms has been reported to cause
skin irritation.

Algae advisory signs have been posted on Killarney Lake beach, at the Red Cross dock at
Victoria Beach, and at Rock Lake at the Christian Camp beach and at the main beach.

Manitobans are reminded that in the absence of a severe algal bloom, recreational
activities are considered safe. However, if large amounts of green scum are visible in the
water, it is advisable to:
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avoid swimming or other contact with the water;
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not drink the water – boiling or chlorination will not make the water safe;
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prevent pets and livestock from drinking along the shoreline; and
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do not to eat fish from the lake that appear unhealthy.
Lake Winnipeg Health

Protecting and improving water quality and the health of Lake Winnipeg is the focus of a
number of initiatives underway across the province.

Work continues to reduce nutrient loads to Lake Winnipeg and to meet the targets of the
Lake Winnipeg Action Plan including requirements for advanced waste-water treatment,
new regulations for septic fields, supporting the establishment and maintenance of riparian
and wetland areas, and working with upstream jurisdictions and stakeholders across the
watershed. In addition, the proposed Nutrient Management Regulation under the Water
Protection Act will manage nutrient application to land from sources including synthetic
fertilizers, manure and municipal waste-water sludge. An education campaign is currently
underway to encourage the use of phosphorus-free cleaning products and to reduce the
use of cosmetic lawn fertilizers.
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The work of the Lake Winnipeg Stewardship Board, formed in July 2003 to assist
government achieve its commitments in the Lake Winnipeg Action Plan, is also continuing.
The board’s two reports to government contained comprehensive and significant
recommendations on short-, medium- and long-term actions to protect Lake Winnipeg.
Many of these recommendations were accepted in principle and implementation is
underway.

Manitoba Water Stewardship also continues to work co-operatively with scientists from the
federal government, universities and the Lake Winnipeg Research Consortium to fund and
undertake research on Lake Winnipeg. Monitoring and research continues this summer on
the science vessel the Namao to improve the understanding of nutrient and algae
dynamics.
BEACH SAFETY
There are many things you can do to be responsible in and around water.

Watch your children at all times. Never leave them alone in or near water.

Ensure that you and your group know how to swim. It’s the best way to stay safe in and
around water.

Swim only in the designated swimming areas.

Know your swimming limitations and stay within them. Don’t try to keep up with more
experienced or stronger swimmers.

Don’t bring inflatables to the beach. Wind can blow them into the water where children
tend to follow.

Always check water depth before diving.

Never swim alone. Use the buddy system. Always swim with a friend and watch out for
each other.

Don’t consume alcohol before or while swimming. Alcohol impairs your abilities and
judgment.

Learn lifesaving and first aid skills so you can help yourself and others.

Weaker swimmers and young children should wear a properly-sized life jacket or personal
flotation device (PFD).
By taking responsibility and following these water-smart precautions, Manitobans can safely
enjoy the province’s beaches.
DOC: Beach Update Aug 3.WS
Contact: Paul/Charlie