Summer beckons us outdoors and to the beaches, but staying safe whilst enjoying the outdoors starts with keeping up to date with the latest information. There are several beaches in the Kotka region, and it’s worth checking your local council’s website for information on water quality and other guidelines – whilst also remembering to protect yourself from the heat and respect everyone’s rights when out in nature.

So far, the quality of bathing water at the beaches in Kotka and Pyhtää has been good, and no blue-green algae has been detected in the samples. Water quality is monitored by testing for bacteria in particular and by visually checking that there is no algae or litter in the water. Blue-green algae is a type of bacteria that lives in water and can appear green or bluish. It can be harmful to humans and animals and cause, for example, skin rashes or stomach problems. If there is blue-green algae in the water, you should not swim in it or use the water.

Various ailments can occur in the summer, but it is not always necessary to go to A&E, as the Emergency Helpline 116117 provides rapid assistance via chat or telephone and, if necessary, directs you to the appropriate place for treatment.

Public beaches in Pyhtää
Public beaches in Kotka
Hamina’s beaches
Miehikkälä’s beaches
Virolahti´s beaches

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