Recreational water and health: Protecting your health

How to protect yourself before, during and after a visit to a recreational water area.

On this page

• Before your visit
• During your visit
• After leaving the area

Before your visit

Check for up-to-date water quality monitoring results and swimming advisories on local health department or municipal websites.

Pack protective gear such as:

• hats
• sunglasses
• sunscreen
• personal flotation devices (if needed)

Talk to your health care provider about the risks of taking part in recreational water activities if you're more susceptible to infections, such as:

• a senior
• someone with a weakened immune system

During your visit

Follow all posted signs, like:

• swimming advisories
• warnings for specific hazards
• rules about pets

Be aware of any potential hazards in the area, such as:

• changing tides
• strong currents
• deep waters close to shore

Remember that some hazards may not have warning signs.

When in the water, remember to:

• wear proper safety and protective equipment, such as:
  • wetsuits (in cold water)
  • personal flotation devices (when necessary)
• avoid swimming when you have open sores or wounds, to help prevent infections
• avoid swallowing water, regardless of the water quality, to minimize the risk of getting sick

Don't poop in the water and stay out of the water if you have diarrhea. Harmful microorganisms in feces can get into the water and make others sick.

Dry off with a towel after being in the water to help remove any contaminants from your skin.

Always wash your hands with clean water and soap, or use hand sanitizer, before consuming any food.

Sand can contain microorganisms that can make you sick. To reduce exposure, you can:

• use beach towels to provide a clean surface to sit on
• encourage your children to keep sand out of their mouths

Dispose of your garbage properly. Litter can attract animals to the area and cause injuries for beach users.

Take measures to protect yourself from heat illnesses and overexposure to the sun's UV rays.

Learn more about:

• Sun safety basics

After leaving the area

Shower with soap and water as soon as you can after spending time in the water or on the beach. This will wash away microorganisms and any other contaminants.

If you become ill after your visit, talk to your healthcare provider. Report your illness to your local public health unit. This can help identify outbreaks of disease related to the recreational water area.