With summer approaching and schools on vacation, Nassau County's beaches are preparing for a record number of visitors.

"The beach water quality of Nassau County's public beaches has never been better," Nassau County Health Commissioner David M. Ackman, M.D., M.P.H., announced today. The Nassau County Department of Health's program for beach monitoring is one of the most comprehensive in the State. Throughout the season, beaches are inspected and water is tested at all 62 bathing beaches for various bacteria (total and fecal coliform and enterococci) to ensure water quality.

The decision to close a beach, if necessary, is based on multiple factors, including sanitary surveys, known spills, rainfall models, tidal flows as well as actual bacteria levels. Nassau's experience is that most closures are anticipatory and done before water quality poses a health risk.

Health Department staff also checks for the presence of certified lifeguards, the availability of necessary safety equipment, the sanitary condition of restrooms and the general overall condition of the beach.

If there are any beach closures during the coming season, information will be publicly posted, including notification on the Health Department website: www.nassaucountyny.gov/Health

If residents have any concerns regarding health and safety conditions at a beach, they should first notify the lifeguard on duty. If no lifeguard is available, or additional assistance is needed, they can contact the Health Department at (516) 571-2591.