Espoo monitors water quality at beaches – read our tips for swimmers
There are more than 30 beaches in the Espoo and Kirkkonummi area, offering a perfect setting for fun-filled summer days. Espoo Region Environmental Health Services regularly checks beaches and monitors bathing water quality during the summer.
Three samples are taken at the small beaches and five samples at the larger beaches (so-called EU beaches) during the summer. The samples are analysed for faecal bacteria, and the presence of blue-green algae is also examined when collecting the samples.
The results of the water samples and information on the blue-green algae situation in Espoo and Kirkkonummi can be found on the Espoon uimarantavesitulokset page (in Finnish) and on the Kirkkonummen uimarantavesitulokset page (in Finnish). Check the ulkoliikunta.fi(external link, opens in a new window) website for more information on the presence of blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) and water temperatures. New results are available on the website for one day.
Water containing blue-green algae can be harmful to health
Blue-green algae is often found at some beaches in Espoo and Kirkkonummi. The algae can be harmful to health. Young children especially should not swim in the water if blue-green algae is present. Some blue-green algae may produce liver toxins or neurotoxins. Blue-green algae may also cause nausea and eye, nose or lung symptoms.
The blue-green algae situation at a beach may change rapidly, so it is important to visually assess the situation before entering the water. Here are two tips for identifying blue-green algae:
- Stick test: Take a stick and try to pick up some algae. If the algae hangs from your stick, it is not blue-green algae. If the algae disintegrates into particles, it usually is blue-green algae.
- Glass test: Take some bathing water into a glass and let it sit for a while. If green particles appear on the surface of the water, it is blue-green algae.
Take care of hygiene at the beach
It is important to take care of hygiene at the beach, as swimmers’ behaviour has a significant impact on water quality. Please follow these instructions to help maintain good bathing water quality.
- Only visit the beach in good health. If you have been ill with diarrhoea or vomiting, you should avoid swimming for approximately two weeks.
- Take care of personal hygiene.
- Use the showers and toilets available at the beach.
- Do not change your baby’s diaper or wash their bottom in the bathing water.
- Do not swallow bathing water.