Bathing Beaches

Public Health Specialists inspect many elements of a bathing beach including:

• Water Quality: Inspectors check for bacteria levels, particularly E. coli, and other contaminants to ensure the water is safe for swimming.
• Beach Facilities: This includes the condition of restrooms, changing areas, and showers. They assess cleanliness and availability of supplies like soap and toilet paper.
• Lifeguard Services: If lifeguards are present, inspectors evaluate their training, certification, and overall readiness to respond to emergencies.
• Signage: Proper signage regarding swimming rules, water quality alerts, and emergency procedures must be visible and clear.
• Waste Management: The disposal of trash and waste is reviewed to ensure there are adequate receptacles and that they are being emptied regularly.
• Safety Equipment: Availability and condition of rescue equipment, such as rings and buoys, are inspected.
• Environmental Concerns: Inspectors may look at potential hazards, like sharp objects or dangerous currents, as well as the overall cleanliness of the beach area.
• Access and Egress: The ease of access to and from the beach for swimmers, including pathways and any barriers that might pose risks.