Nova Scotia Parks has issued warnings against swimming at Rainbow Haven Beach and Lawrencetown Beach due to elevated bacteria levels. Recent water tests at these beaches have shown bacteria levels exceeding the safety limit set by the Department of Environment and Climate Change. The Nova Scotia Lifeguard Service collected samples on Friday morning and is awaiting laboratory results, with the advisory expected to remain in effect over the weekend.
The presence of elevated levels of enterococci, a bacteria commonly found in saltwater, poses health risks similar to E. coli in freshwater sources. While the beaches remain open for walking, lifeguards are present solely to educate visitors about the swimming advisory and not for water rescues. Alternative beach options for safe swimming include Martinique, Queensland, and Bayswater.
In case the bacteria levels improve following additional testing on Monday, the beaches may reopen, and the advisory could be lifted accordingly. It is crucial for beachgoers to heed the warnings and avoid swimming until the water is deemed safe again.