As summer temperatures rise, many of us seek ways to cool down in the water. Before you dive in, take a moment to absorb some important information about natural bodies of water to protect yourself and the marine life sharing the water with you.

As the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says, “Creeks and streams often contain harmful germs and may not be monitored for water quality. Swimming or playing in creeks and streams can put you at risk for waterborne illness or infection.”

Hot temperatures could lead to the proliferation of harmful algal blooms (HABs), which are toxic to humans and animals. HABs can appear in lakes and rivers when wind and water conditions are right, after extreme weather conditions, and as a result of 'overfeeding' from land-based sources of nutrients flowing into the ocean. They reproduce quickly, leaving a foamy layer on the surface of the water. As algae dies, the oxygen supply for aquatic life decreases, disrupting the ecosystem.

Humans exposed to HABs may experience irritation of their skin, eyes, nose or throat, as well as symptoms such as a fever, stomach pain or vomiting.

The CDC’s list of precautions to take before recreating in natural bodies of water includes the following:

• Check online to find out if a swim area is currently monitored, is under an advisory, or has been closed for health or safety reasons. This is especially important after a heavy rain.
• If your body's ability to fight germs is already affected by other health problems or medicines, check with your healthcare provider before swimming in oceans, lakes, rivers, and other natural bodies of water.

Stay out of the water if:

• Signs warn that the swim area is closed.
  • This may be due to high levels of germs in the water which make it unsafe for swimming.
• The water looks cloudier than usual, is discolored, or smells bad. Cloudy water can be a warning that there are more germs in the water than normal. Discolored or smelly water could indicate HABs in the water.
• If you go in the water while you have a cut or wound (especially from a surgery or piercing) that is still healing, cover it completely with waterproof bandages.

If we all make responsible decisions about where we swim, we’ll all be able to enjoy playing safely in water.