ANCHORAGE (KTUU): Over the last two months, several beach reviews have been released for the Kenai and Ketchikan Peninsula areas as there are many bacteria present.
Alaska Department of Conservation officials said recreational users should not avoid these beaches as long as they make reasonable provision to enjoy the coastal areas.
"They should avoid water when they come in contact with seawater, then wash, bathe and wash their hands before eating," said Gretchen Pikul, environmental program specialist. "If you take the right precautions, there should be no illness."
High levels of fecal coliforms and enterococci are advisable. Announcements were made on 19 July for the beaches of North and South Kenai as well as for seven beaches of Ketchikan.
DEC reminds the public that not only can it take precautions to protect itself, but it can also take measures to protect the environment.
"Cut and dispose of the remains of fish in the main part of the river or put them in the container when you leave the beach," said Pikul. "Seagulls come to feed on corpses on the beach, leaving stool on the beach.
Pikul also insists on cleaning pets and using mobile toilets on the beach.
Coliform bacteria and enterococci in faeces are found in the gut of warm-blooded animals, including birds, humans, dogs and seals.
"Enterococci, which indicate the possible presence of a bacterium that causes disease, cause upset stomach and diarrhea or infections of the ear, eyes and skin," said Pikul.
Messages will be released after DEC monitoring efforts have assessed water quality. Water quality information can be found on the DEC website.
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