Health officials warn swimmers to avoid Garniers Beach Park after unsafe test results
Okaloosa County, Florida – After recent testing showed high levels of bacteria in the water, the Florida Department of Health in Okaloosa County has issued a water advisory for Garniers Beach Park. The notice, which came out on May 27, concerns the well-known park at 257 Beachview Drive NE in Fort Walton Beach.
Health officials say that regular monitoring of the water showed that the levels of Enterococcus bacteria were higher than what is considered safe for recreational usage. Enterococcus is a type of bacteria that is common in natural environments. When levels go too high, it can be harmful for your health, especially for swimmers and young children who may be more likely to get sick from waterborne infections.
The health department is advising individuals to stay away from Garniers Beach Park till further notice. There are signs up in the area, and the department will let everyone know as soon as the water quality is better and it is considered safe to return.
Additional information about the test findings is available online at FloridaHealth.gov/HealthyBeaches. Also, anyone who live in or visit Okaloosa County can call the Florida Department of Health at 850-833-9247 or go to Okaloosa.FloridaHealth.gov for more information.
The Department of Health, which holds national accreditation for its efforts to safeguard public health, emphasized that these advisories are issued out of caution and as part of ongoing efforts to protect the well-being of the community. Regular monitoring of local waterways is an important part of ensuring the safety of both residents and visitors.
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Officials are expected to continue testing and will lift the advisory when the water at Garniers Beach Park meets the recommended health standards again. Until then, individuals are urged to pay attention to posted warnings and get their information from official sources.
