The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has issued an Ocean Water Advisory for beachgoers, cautioning against water contact. Citing concerns over contamination from fire-fighting runoff, the department has pointed specifically to the risk around storm drains, creeks, and rivers that may carry potentially hazardous debris from recent blazes. The advisory includes areas from Surfrider Beach to Dockweiler State Beach at World Way and extends to any runoff that might collect on adjacent beach sands.

As firefighters combat the blazes, the department underscored that an "unknown quantity of fire-fighting runoff," which could include toxic chemicals, has flowed into the ocean. While the exact risks remain unclear, the potential for illness from coming into contact with the contaminated water has led to the call for the public to steer clear from these zones, according to a statement made by the County of Los Angeles. The advisory is set to remain in effect until three days after fire-fighting efforts have ceased and the department provides further notification.

Residents and visitors looking to stay informed on beach conditions can access current updates through the County's beach closure hotline, available 24 hours a day at 1-800-525-5662. For those wishing a visual on the affected locations or desiring more detailed information, the Department of Public Health's website offers a map and additional resources – all designed to help beachgoers make informed decisions about their coastal activities.