Swim advisory in effect at Couchiching Beach (Update: lifted)

Update

The swim advisory was lifted Thursday.

Original release

NEWS RELEASE
CITY OF ORILLIA
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The City of Orillia has received notice from the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit that a swimming advisory has been issued for Couchiching Beach, located at Couchiching Beach Park, due to a higher-than-normal bacteria count.

A swimming advisory is issued when the bacteria levels exceed those considered acceptable by the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit. An advisory is a warning to swimmers, but it is not a beach closure. During a swimming advisory, the beach is posted with warning signs indicating there may be an increased risk of developing minor irritations and infections. If you choose to swim during a swimming advisory, it may be prudent to avoid ducking your head or swallowing the water.

Bacteria counts can be affected by many different factors with the most common being rain, wind and water fowl. For more information, visit simcoemuskokahealth.org.

Lifeguards are off duty during a swim advisory and swimmers are cautioned to swim at their own risk.

Moose Beach remains unaffected and is open at this time.

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