Swimmers are being advised not to beat the heat in the waters at Hamsterly Beach, due to high levels of fecal coliform bacteria.

The Capital Regional District put out the warning Thursday stating "that swimming and wading in the water at Hamsterly Beach may be unsafe and is not recommended." The bacteria stems from Canada geese droppings, as the birds can frequently be spotted around the beach.

The parks and beach remain open, however signs are posted warning about the bacteria levels. The signs will be removed once samples of the water are again within acceptable limits, according to the Vancouver Island Health Authority.

According to the CRD website: "Swimming in water with unacceptable bacteria levels can increase the risk of ear, nose and throat infection or stomach illnesses."

Hamsterly Beach is located at the north end of Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park.

For more information on the advisory, visit www.viha.ca/mho/water/beach_reports.htm.

kslavin@saanichnews.com