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The only change from last year
(2oo5) is the fact that we now evaluate the sample results
differently than last year. Last year, the results were
based on a 5-sample geometric mean. This, of course, is a
geometric “average” of the 5 most recent sample results. If
the mean was greater than 126, we would recommend that
advisory signs be posted.
However,
the US EPA has determined that a more efficient method for
analysis of fresh water beaches is to use a single sample
maximum. This “maximum limit” is based on the most recent
sample result. (Since it takes 18 – 24 hours to analyze for
E. coli in the lab, this result is still “yesterday’s news”,
but it provides an opportunity for beach managers to react
more quickly to constantly changing water quality). The
single sample maximum is 235 E. coli colony forming units (cfu).
Therefore, if a sample result is greater than 235 cfu, a
beach will be posted with advisory signs.
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What does it
mean when a beach is "posted"?
Beaches are "posted" with warning signs when it is determined that
bacteria levels in the water exceed Ohio water quality standards.
Swimming in the water during these periods is done at your own risk and
may increase your chances of becoming ill. During a period of severe
contamination, a beach may be closed.
What kinds of illnesses can result from water
contact?
The most common kinds of problems are stomach and intestinal illnesses
which occur as a result of swallowing water during swimming or other
water activities. However, swallowing contaminated water may or may not
result in illness. Typical symptoms are abdominal cramps, diarrhea,
dehydration, and fever. Children and older persons may be more
susceptible to these symptoms. Skin, eye, and ear infections may also be
transmitted through contaminated water. If you become ill shortly after
beach usage and require medical attention, you should let your doctor
know you have been at the beach.
How can I protect myself and/or my family?
The safest thing is not to go into the water when beach warnings are
posted. Since young children and elderly adults are most likely to
contract an illness associated with contaminated water, these groups are
particularly cautioned. If you go in the water, avoid activities which
might result in swallowing water. In addition, water contact should be
avoided by anyone with a cut or open sore.
When are the safest times to swim?
Natural water bodies such as lakes, rivers, and streams are not treated
by chlorine as used in swimming pools. Because there are many ways in
which natural water bodies can become contaminated, it is not possible
to assure total safety at any time.
We can, however, predict periods when the beaches are likely to be
contaminated from water pollution which results from rainstorm runoff.
Experience suggests that the potential for storm water contamination is
highest during the first day following a rainstorm. Consequently,
swimming is not advised for a period of one or two days following a
rainstorm. But these periods are not the only times when water may be
contaminated. Watch for beach posting signs as a guide to whether
contamination is likely, or contact one of the resource agencies
provided on the back side of this pamphlet.
Fortunately, Lake Erie is a large body of clean water. And dilution,
along with other natural purification processes, are constantly working
to reduce contamination.
What are the sources of water contamination and
what is being done about them?
The water quality of Lake Erie, the Cuyahoga River, and urban streams
has improved dramatically over the past 20 years. However, sewer
overflows, rainstorm runoff, and poor hygienic practices by some beach
users continue to be sources of contamination.
Cleveland and its bordering communities are mostly served by combined
sewers. When it rains these sewers, which are designed to carry both
storm and sanitary sewage, overflow to the environment to prevent
flooding of homes and streets.
The Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District is working to reduce
combined sewer overflow problems. However, this will be a very large and
expensive effort which may take 20 or more years. Also, local
communities are working to upgrade and improve maintenance of their
local sewer systems which can be a source of contamination.
Rain water which washes the land and runs off to the environment can be
a significant source of contaminants. For example, pet and shore bird
wastes can be large sources of bacteria. Improved land management
practices and individual actions can reduce the amount of contaminants
picked up by rain water.
If you want to know the bacteria count
at Edgewater beach > note :the bacteria count lags one
day behind.. because it takes 24 hours for the results.
As part of the Ohio Department of Health Bathing Beach Monitoring
Program, calling 1-866-OHIO-BCH will provide swimmers with a list of
beaches across Ohio that currently have advisories posted, alerting
people to high levels of bacteria in the water. The high levels of
bacteria can make swimmers sick; especially susceptible are the elderly,
young children and people already ill.
DOING YOUR
PART
* Boaters should comply with laws requiring pumping of holding
tanks.
* Follow good hygienic practices such as prompt and proper disposal
of soiled diapers.
* Properly discard pet wastes to help reduce contamination.
* Refrain from attracting shore birds by offering them food.
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