News advisory: Hennepin County helps keep public beach water safe for recreation and swimming

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Hennepin County Minnesota

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Allison Thrash, Communications, 612-600-9782

 

Hennepin County helps keep public beach water safe for recreation and swimming

Each summer between Memorial Day and Labor Day, Hennepin County Public Health samples and analyzes the water at local public swimming beaches at least once per week. Beach water inspections help prevent the spread of waterborne illnesses and keep beaches safe for recreation and swimming.   

 

Members of the media: Watch a beach water inspection 

 

Stay up-to-date with Hennepin County’s beach map 

Hennepin County’s interactive beach map shows the current water status of local public swimming beaches, including whether they’re contaminated and closed. It includes beaches that are monitored by other jurisdictions like cities or regional park authorities. Find the map at hennepin.us/beaches. 

 

Other tips for healthy recreation and swimming 

  • Wait 24 hours to swim after a heavy rainfall 
  • Shower after being at the beach 
  • Don't swallow water 
  • Wash your hands thoroughly before eating and after using the bathroom 
  • Don't swim if you're sick or have a weakened immune system 
  • Put tight-fitting rubber or plastic pants on children who aren’t toilet-trained 
  • Take your children for frequent bathroom breaks 
  • Don't attract birds to the beach by feeding them 
  • Pick up your trash 
  • If you boat, properly dispose of waste 
  • Keep pets safe by being on the lookout for blue-green algae blooms. 

 

More summer safety resources 

 

Look for more news on the Hennepin County website at hennepin.us/news.