Heading into the dog days of summer, Wake County isn't taking any chances with the health and safety of its swimming public. County officials have announced a program to monitor bacteria levels at popular swim spots, providing a clear, color-coded health advisory system. Reports starting this week and running until the curtain falls on Labor Day will indicate whether the waters are hospitable to swimmers or whether they should steer clear, according to an article from WakeGov News.
"Regular testing helps us catch potential problems early," said Wake County Commissioner Cheryl Stallings, addressing the county's commitment to its residents' safety and enjoyment. Making safety a top priority, county officials will post color-coded signs that speak clearer than words: green for go, yellow for caution, and red to stop and avoid the water altogether, as per WakeGov News.
Among the destinations under the microscope are Beaverdam, Sandling Beach, Holly Point at Falls Lake; also getting a close look are Fantasy Lake Water Park, YMCA Camp Kanata, New Life Camp, Umstead State Park, and Lake Wheeler. A diverse set of swimming holes, the county hopes that their efforts will render each a safe haven for summer frolic.
It's not unexpected for freshwater lakes to play host to bacterial residents, though skies darken with concern when those levels spike to potentially hazardous peaks. Informed citizens can look out for advisory signs posted at each site that offer a weekly prognosis. While a green sign will be a welcome sight indicating smooth swimming ahead, the presence of a yellow sign signifies caution—particularly after heavy rainfall. And should a red sign rear its head, swimmers will know that the beach is off-limits, as the sign indicates closure due to high bacteria levels, as per Cheryl Stallings in a statement to WakeGov News.
