WHITMORE LAKE, Mich. – The Washtenaw County Health Department has closed Independence Lake Beach to swimming after routine testing revealed high levels of E. coli in the water.
The closure, announced Aug. 5, is effective immediately and will remain in place until follow-up tests confirm the water is safe for swimming.
Officials said the elevated levels were detected through routine testing conducted at public bathing beaches during the summer months.
While swimming is prohibited, other recreational activities that do not involve direct contact with the water -- such as fishing -- are still permitted at the lake.
Related: Swimming advisory issued for Holland Beach in St. Clair County due to elevated levels of E. coli
E. coli bacteria are a common microbe found in the digestive systems of warm-blooded animals, including humans, and can show the presence of fecal contamination. Contact with recreational water poses the risk of waterborne illnesses. The health department advised the following actions to reduce the risk of waterborne illness:
- Do not swim in water that smells foul, looks murky or has floating foam
- Dispose of trash, animal waste, and boat waste properly
- Use the restroom before swimming
- Do not swim immediately after heavy rain when E. coli levels may be high
- Do not swallow lake water
- Vigorously towel off after swimming
- Wash hands with soap and water before eating
- Shower as soon as possible
- Avoid contact with recreational waters if you have open sores or wounds