With warm weather and vacations starting, the Nassau County Department of Health reminds residents to swim only at permitted bathing facilities during open hours. The Health Department discourages swimming or wading in unregulated areas including canals, ponds and channels due to safety concerns and unknown water quality.

All permitted beaches in Nassau County are supervised by lifeguards and have the necessary safety equipment available to handle medical emergencies. Boats and other watercraft, which pose a hazard to bathers, are prohibited from entering swimming areas. Other dangers to swimmers include strong currents and sudden bottom drop-offs.

The water at all permitted beaches is sampled regularly to insure acceptable water quality. To date, no beach in Nassau County has been closed this season for failing to meet water quality standards.

For information about pool and beach facilities, call the Nassau County Health Department weekdays at 571-3693 from 9:00 a.m. - 4:45 p.m.