Why is the beach water tested?

Recreational beach water in Evanston is an open system, meaning contamination can come from a variety of sources. The water is tested daily in order to determine if it poses an increased risk of spreading illness.

What illness can you get from contaminated beach water?

The primary route of exposure to pathogens in contaminated beach water is accidental ingestion of the water. This can lead to an increased risk of contracting gastrointestinal illness (GI). Symptoms include:

• Chills
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Fever

Other health complications can include respiratory illness, ear and eye infections, and skin rashes, however, gastrointestinal illness has been the disease observed most frequently.

How often is the beach water tested?

The Evanston Health and Human Services Department samples each Evanston beach seven days a week starting the Friday of Memorial Day weekend until Labor Day.

What testing method does Evanston use?

The Evanston Health and Human Services Department has partnered with the University of Illinois at Chicago School of Public Health to conduct a rapid qPCR testing method developed by the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), Method 1611. The qPCR testing known as Polymerase Chain Reaction analysis is the most advanced and currently the fastest technology available to determine beach water quality. The qPCR testing method measures the level of bacterial DNA in samples of beach water and provides results within 3 - 4 hours.

Why switch from the former testing method to qPCR?

The former testing method, Colilert-18, had a turn-around time of 18-22 hours for confirmed results whereas the qPCR testing method provides confirmed results within 3-4 hours. This recent measure is to incorporate in the beach operations the latest and safest public health science to protect and assure the public health and safety of Evanston beachgoers.

What does Evanston test for?

Beach water contaminated by fecal pollution can contain a variety of pathogens. Due to this wide variety, protection of public health is accomplished by testing for FIB or Fecal Indicator Bacteria. FIB provides an estimation of the presence and quantity of fecal pathogens in the water. In using Method 1611, the water is tested for Enterococcus which has been shown to have a stronger relationship with GI illness compared to E. coli.

How will I know if an advisory or closure has been issued?

Advisories and Closures based on water quality have been incorporated into the new flag warning system which aims to provide beachgoers with clearer insights into swimming conditions.

Lakefront personnel will utilize three distinct flag colors to indicate levels of swimming risk. Each flag will also be outfitted with printed lettering to aid individuals with low vision. These flags will be prominently displayed on the central lifeguard chair at every designated swimming area.

This new flag warning system mirrors the standards set by the Chicago Park District, ensuring consistency in guidance for swimmers frequenting both Evanston and Chicago beaches.

This new system will be used in tandem with the current online beach status website as communication tools for community members. Lakefront staff will continue to update the City’s beach status website daily.

How do I minimize risk of illness to myself and others?

• Pay attention to the beach flag system which provides daily information of the conditions of the beaches.
• Avoid going into the water if you have fresh cuts or abrasions.
• Don't swallow the water.
• Shower before and after swimming
• Stay out of the water if you have diarrhea
• Take children on frequent bathroom breaks when swimming
• Dispose of trash and waste properly
• Change diapers frequently and away from the water. Wash your hands and the child's hands after changing diapers
• Wear goggles. Eyes (and ears) are entry points for bacteria that swimmers often don't think about
• Don't encourage water fowl by feeding ducks, geese, seagulls, or other birds.

How do bacteria get in the water?

The beach is an open system and as a result can introduce bacteria through: 

• Combined and sanitary sewer overflow 
• Storm runoff following a rain
• Wild and domestic animal waste 
• Bather defecation
• Illegal sewer connections to storm sewers or direct discharges to the lake.

Who do I contact if I have questions or concerns regarding beach water?

Please call the Health and Human Services Department at 847-448-4311 or email health@cityofevanston.org if you have questions or concerns regarding beach water