Three beaches in the Niagara area have been identified as unsafe for swimming due to E. coli presence, yet they remain open, as reported by the Niagara Region’s beach water testing results.
Additionally, Grimsby’s Nelles Beach has been classified as unsafe for swimming and is completely closed. The Niagara Region stated that Nelles has not undergone E. coli testing “for safety reasons.”
Symptoms associated with E. coli include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. This type of bacteria can lead to gastrointestinal issues, particularly affecting vulnerable groups like children and the elderly.
Beaches in Niagara deemed unsafe for swimming
- Lakeside Beach in St. Catharines
- Sunset Beach in St. Catharines
- Sherkston Elco in Port Colborne
- Nelles Beach in Grimsby (closed)
Despite being considered unsafe for swimming, the beaches in St. Catharines are still open for visitors wishing to sunbathe or build sandcastles.
Regarding the safety concerns at Nelles Beach in Grimsby, the region noted potential issues such as “floating debris, oil, excessive weed growth, unpleasant odors,” and water cloudiness, as mentioned on its website.
The Niagara Region emphasized that E. coli test results “may not always be reliable” and can fluctuate based on factors such as the number of swimmers or birds present, wind and wave activity, water clarity, and recent heavy rain.
“To minimize the risk of illness, avoid swallowing lake water or getting beach water in your mouth, and make sure to wash or sanitize your hands before eating, particularly after engaging in activities on the sand or in the water,” officials advised in a message to CBC.
Individuals are also urged to “check the latest water quality reports and assess surrounding conditions prior to entering the water. If the situation appears questionable, it’s best to enjoy the beach from the shore,” the message stated.
Lakeside Park Beach in St. Catharines, Ont., remains open despite positive E. coli test results in the water. (Diona Macalinga/CBC)
Niagara beaches confirmed safe for swimming
Fort Erie
- Bay Beach
- Bernard Avenue Beach
- Crescent Beach
- Waverly Beach
Grimsby
- Casablanca Beach
- Fifty Point Conservation Beach
Lincoln
- Charles Daley Park
Niagara-on-the-Lake
- Queen’s Royal Beach
Port Colborne
- Centennial Cedar Bay Beach
- Nickel Beach
- Sherkston Quarry Beach
- Sherkston Wyldewood Beach
Wainfleet
- Long Beach
- Reebs Bay
- Wainfleet Lake Erie Public Access Beach
Before entering the lake for a swim, is there a way to determine if harmful bacteria are present in the water? A student public health inspector explains to CBC London the process of collecting and testing water samples for E. coli, along with what beachgoers can do if bacteria are detected.
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