To ensure the safety of our members, we monitor water quality. When there are elevated concentrations of bacteria, algae, pollution, and/or a combined sewer discharge, we make recommendations to the coaches. After some heavy winter storms, some paddles may be canceled for safety, even up to three days later.
We use several sources to inform our recommendations:
- Marin County Ocean and Bay Water Quality Testing Program
- San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC)
- San Francisco Bay – Safe to Swim Data
- United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- East Bay Regional Park District
- California Department of Public Health
If you are exposed to water that may be unsafe:
- Avoid contact with your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Wash any equipment and your hands thoroughly with soap and water right after use.
- Change out of your clothes immediately after exposure and wash them with detergent and hot water.
- Monitor your health for several days. If any symptoms develop, seek medical attention promptly.