Cool off at one of Toronto's beaches this weekend

TORONTO, July 2 /CNW/ - Weather forecasters are calling for a hot and humid weekend in the city with temperatures climbing to 30degreesC. If you're looking for a great spot to enjoy a swim and cool down, head for one of Toronto's beaches. Most are open for swimming:

    
    -  Hanlan's Point Beach (Blue Flag)
    -  Centre Island Beach (Blue Flag)
    -  Ward's Island Beach (Blue Flag)
    -  Cherry Beach (Blue Flag)
    -  Woodbine Beaches (Blue Flag)
    -  Gibraltar Point Beach (Blue Flag)
    -  Kew-Balmy Beach
    -  Bluffer's Beach
    -  Rouge Beach
    

From June to the end of August, the City of Toronto takes samples each day from the 11 supervised beaches across the city. Water samples are tested for E. Coli levels and must not exceed the Provincial guidelines of 100 E. Coli per 100 ml of water. When water tests show high amounts of E. Coli bacteria, Toronto Public Health posts signs warning against swimming. Testing the samples usually takes 24 hours.

Six of Toronto's 11 beaches (Ward's Island, Hanlan's Point Beach, Woodbine Beach, Gibraltar Point Beach, Cherry Beach and Centre Island Beach) carry the internationally recognized designation of Blue Flag for high standards in water quality, cleanliness, safety and services.

When enjoying a day at the beach, don't swim or dive in unknown waters. Always check for rocks and an undertow and swim with a buddy. City lifeguards are a great resource for information about beach safety and water quality.

For more information, call the City's Beach Water Quality Hotline at 416-392-7161 or visit http://www.toronto.ca/beach .

Toronto is Canada's largest city and sixth largest government, and home to a diverse population of about 2.6 million people. It is the economic engine of Canada and one of the greenest and most creative cities in North America. Toronto has won numerous awards for quality, innovation and efficiency in delivering public services. Toronto's government is dedicated to prosperity, opportunity and liveability for all its residents. For information about non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can dial 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

For further information: Media contact: Michael D'Andrea, Director, Water Infrastructure Management, Toronto Water, [email protected], 416-816-5375