As the sun shines brighter and summer approaches, beach lovers in Ontario can breathe a sigh of relief! The Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit (HKPR District Health Unit) is rolling out its much-anticipated 2025 Beach Water Monitoring Program to ensure that your beach days are not just fun, but safe.

From June 16 through August 29, 2025, Public Health Inspectors, in collaboration with Public Health Ontario, will be vigilant at 54 local beaches across Haliburton, the City of Kawartha Lakes, and Northumberland County. Each week, water quality will be meticulously tested for E. coli, a critical marker for safety.

Why Monitoring Matters!

Contaminated waters can lurk dangers that most beachgoers are unaware of—think gastrointestinal infections, skin rashes, and even eye and ear irritations! These risks can arise from stormwater runoff, wildlife, or sewage issues that often go unseen.

The HKPR District Health Unit is here to combat those dangers. Weekly samples analyzed in a provincial lab help empower you with the knowledge you need to dive in worry-free. Based on the results, each beach will display one of three safety levels:

Beach Safety Levels:

**LOW RISK (Green):** Perfectly safe for swimming! **MODERATE RISK (Yellow):** Best to avoid swimming in deeper water or swallowing any—proceed with caution! **HIGH RISK (Red):** Unsafe for swimming—stay clear! This beach is temporarily closed due to elevated bacteria levels.

Stay informed! Weekly results are available at hkpr.on.ca/BeachCheck and on social media @HKPRDHU. Plus, clear signage at the beaches will keep you updated on water safety status.

Don't Forget to Check!

Surprisingly, a 2022 survey found that 69% of beachgoers didn't check water quality before taking a dip! Don’t be a statistic—always head to hkpr.on.ca/BeachCheck for the latest updates before you splash into the water.

"Whether you're making memories with family or enjoying a solo swim, taking a moment to check the water quality can save you from a nasty illness," advises Bernie Mayer, Manager of Health Protection with HKPR. "It’s a quick and effective way to safeguard your health while enjoying the great outdoors!"

Stay Connected!

For all the latest beach water results and to learn more about how to swim safely in natural waters, visit hkpr.on.ca/BeachCheck. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X (Twitter) @HKPRDHU for more tips and updates.