30 July 2020

Swimmers urged not to go in the water after heavy rains

| Sharon Kelley
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Debris is continuing to wash up on the beaches in the Eurobodalla Shire.

Debris is continuing to wash up on the beaches in the Eurobodalla Shire. Photo: Supplied.

Eurobodalla Shire Council Environmental Health Coordinator Nathan Ladmore has urged residents not to go swimming or surfing, due to polluted water and debris from the bushfires which is washing into local waterways.

The warning extends to beaches, lakes, and rivers, which have deteriorating water quality from runoff due to the heavy rain and bushfire debris.

Mr Ladmore urged residents to stay out of the polluted water, for at least the next few days.

“Swimming is not recommended during heavy rain, and one day after heavy rain at ocean beaches, and for three days after at estuarine swimming areas because the waterways may be polluted,” he said.

“We expect more debris will be coming downstream from bushfire impacted areas over the next few days too. Murky or discoloured water often hides debris like logs and branches that can cause injury.”

The Council also warned residents to avoid stormwater drains and lagoon openings, which can also be sources of stormwater pollution and should be avoided during and immediately after heavy rain.

“People should always avoid swimming if there are signs of water pollution such as discoloured water, fast-flowing or strong smelling drains, or street litter such as drinking straws, food wrappers or leaves floating in the water or on the tide line.”

Eurobodalla Council regularly tests and monitors water quality in Eurobodalla Shire to ensure community health and safety.

For more information on water quality visit the Council’s website.

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