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Book 30, Question 120 · Video

Why do some beaches close for swimming?

Video · 1:54 · Crafty Clover explains, from A Million Whys Book 30

Public health workers test beach water for bacteria that come from animal and human waste, such as E. coli. These bacteria are signs that other germs might be present. After heavy rain, runoff and overflow can wash more into the water. If tests are high, the beach posts a warning and the lake is off-limits until it's clean. Check posted notices before swimming.

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What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. Why do some beaches close for swimming?

The Big Idea

Sometimes a beach is closed for swimming! Even on a sunny day. Why?

Testing

Step one: Testing. Public health workers test beach water for bacteria from animal and human waste, such as E. coli. These bacteria are signs that other germs might be in the water too.

After Rain

Step two: After Rain. After heavy rain, runoff and sewer overflows can wash more germs into the water. So beaches are more likely to close after storms.

Posted Warnings

Step three: Posted Warnings. If tests are high, the beach posts a warning, and the water is off-limits until it's clean again. Always check posted notices before swimming.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look! Collected. Counted. Raises it. Posted.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! Many beaches post their test results online each day. E. coli is a warning sign. Rain washes germs in. Check notices first.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! With a grown-up, find a local beach's website. See how it posts test results. Check the results each day for a week. Note any warnings. Did rain make a difference?

Outro

Public health workers test beach water for bacteria like E. coli, which signal other germs might be present. After heavy rain, runoff can wash more in, and if tests are high, the beach posts a warning, so always check notices before swimming. Science is amazing! Keep asking questions! The more you look around, the more wonders you will find, so keep your eyes open! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!

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