Heading to the beach to escape the heat? Check the water before you jump in.
Los Angeles County health officials have issued ocean water warnings at eight beaches after testing found bacteria levels exceeding state health standards.
The warnings include portions of Santa Monica, Malibu and Marina del Rey, including areas around the Santa Monica Pier, Mothers Beach and several Malibu beaches.
Officials say swimming, surfing and playing in the water at the affected locations could increase the risk of illness — especially for children, seniors and people with weakened immune systems.
The beaches themselves remain open. It’s the water you’re being warned about.
And with temperatures climbing, that’s lousy timing for anyone planning to cool off at the coast.
Before heading out, check the county’s latest beach-water-quality advisories. The county also has a 24-hour Beach Advisory and Closure Hotline: 1-800-525-5662.
