The Okaloosa Health Department is sharing water safety recommendations after Hurricane Isaias, including avoiding swimming in coastal waters until testing shows acceptable bacteria levels and staying out of pools until they are properly cleaned.
Water quality has been affected by the hurricane, and swimming is not recommended, according to the department.
The department said the guidance is a set of post-hurricane water safety recommendations and not a formal health advisory.
Beaches
Heavy winds and rain can negatively affect coastal waters, and excessive rain and storm surge can increase the levels of harmful bacteria, according to the department. Sources of the bacteria can include failing septic systems, sewer line breaks, overflowing manholes and wildlife.
Debris brought onto beaches by storm surge and floodwaters can be hazardous and may carry harmful bacteria. No one should handle debris without proper safety equipment, the department said.
The department recommends that residents and visitors avoid swimming in coastal waters until bacterial testing shows an acceptable level under state guidelines. Testing will begin as soon as conditions are safe and areas are accessible, according to the department.
Test results will be posted at FloridaHealth.gov/HealthyBeaches.
Pools
The department also recommends that residents and visitors avoid swimming in any pool until it has been properly cleaned and is fully functional. Public swimming pools must be approved for reopening by the department.
According to the DOH, a fully functional pool has:
- Been cleared of debris that may cause injury
- Operating filtration and chemical treatment equipment
- Life-saving equipment available
- Clear water with visible drain covers on the pool floor
- Properly balanced chemicals, with disinfectant and pH at safe levels
More information on swimming pool water and safety is available on the Florida Department of Health’s swimming pool webpage and the WaterSmartFL website.
