Swimming Warnings Throughout Hawke’s Bay

Heavy Rain Results In Swimming Warnings Throughout Hawke’s Bay

Recent heavy rain has caused pollution to contaminate many Hawke’s Bay waterways, says Hawke’s Bay District Health Board’s Medical Officer of Health, Dr Nicholas Jones.

Waterways that were found to contain high levels of bacteria, from sampling undertaken on 18 January 2010 include:

Clive River

Dr Jones says people should avoid all recreational waterways such as lagoons, streams, and rivers for at least three days after heavy rain. Beaches can also pose a health risk as contaminants are flushed down rivers to the coast.

All freshwater should be checked before swimming to see that the water is clear- generally a sign that it is free from contamination. Dr Jones says “A quick test is - can you see your feet when knee deep in the water?”

The "B4U Swim Line" - (06) 878-1368 is updated weekly with information on swimming sites that may be contaminated. Waterway sampling test results are also available from the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council website www.hbrc.govt.nz.

ENDS

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