Key West beaches declared unsafe for swimming

A sign at a Key West beach warns swimmers to stay out of the water

July 27, 1999
Web posted at: 2:57 p.m. EDT (1857 GMT)

KEY WEST, Florida (CNN) -- The beaches are open this summer in Key West, but county health officials are urging people to stay out of the surf. The reason: The water is so polluted by human waste that anyone daring to swim risks ear infections and gastrointestinal diseases.

The problem stems from leaks in Key West's sewer system, which is being replaced over the next five years.

"Sewage can mix with storm water, which is then distributed through the storm water system to the ocean," says Monroe County Health Administrator Jack Teague.

Tests have shown elevated levels of fecal coliform bacteria in the waters. For nearly a month, signs have been posted at most of the beaches, warning against swimming.

But many visitors are swimming at the beach at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, where one test detected human feces at three times the federally recommended maximum, according to Teague.

Since the state of Florida doesn't use that particular test, no warning has been posted at the beach.

The water at Key West's beaches is being tested every week to determine whether contamination still exists and warnings are still necessary.

Health officials say they expect the problem to remain until the summer rains end. In the meantime, they advise visitors to enjoy the sand and sun -- but stay out of the surf.

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