On average, about 100 people die every year from getting stuck in rip currents. Here's what you need to know.
* The 25th Street bayfront beach in Barnegat Light was closed on August 20th due to high levels of fecal bacteria.
* Dog feces was observed at the 25th Street beach during water sample collection.
* Water quality advisories were also issued for several other locations around the Jersey Shore.
BARNEGAT LIGHT -- Health officials closed the 25th Street bayfront beach on Aug. 20 due to high levels of fecal bacteria that exceeded New Jersey's safe swimming standards, according to the state Department of Environmental Protection.
High levels of a bacteria known as enterococcus was discovered in water samples collected there between Aug. 18 and 20. The bacteria is common in the intestines and feces of both human and animals.
While collecting water samples, health officials reported "visible dog activity with feces present" in their notes for the 25th Street bayfront beach, according to the state environmental department.
The beach remains closed to swimming as of Aug. 20.
Health officials issued water quality advisories at other locations around the Jersey Shore on Aug. 20 due to high bacteria levels:
* Beachwood's beach, which is closed for the season due to chronically high bacteria levels.
* Little Egg Harbor's Parkertown docks.
* Manchester Township's Harry Wright Lake.
* South Toms River's Cedar Point.
Harry Wright Lake remains open to swimming as of Aug. 20, but bathers are urged to use caution.
Swimming in bacteria-contaminated water can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and infections of the ears, nose, eyes and mouth.
A water quality alert was lifted at the Seventh Avenue beach in Asbury Park, because bacteria levels dropped to levels considered safe for swimming by Aug. 19 after testing high earlier this week, according to Department of Environmental Protection records.
Amanda Oglesby is an Ocean County native who covers education and the environment. She has worked for the Press for more than 17 years. Reach her at [email protected] or 732-557-5701.