Bathing season starts in Helsinki: new beaches and lifeguards!

Bathing season starts in Helsinki: new beaches and lifeguards!

The bathing season in Helsinki is about to start. From June 2nd to August 10th, citizens and tourists can enjoy the sun and water on the numerous beaches. This season, visitors can expect a variety of innovations, including water quality management and increased staffing.

The city of Helsinki has set up a total of 26 public beaches monitored by lifeguards. Particularly noteworthy is the staffing of Kivinokka and Puotila with professional beach guards, which became necessary due to the increased number of visitors. These measures are intended to increase the safety of bathers and thus ensure a pleasant bathing experience.

Water quality and safety

The water quality of Helsinki's bathing waters is rated as predominantly good to excellent. Regular water samples taken by the city of Helsinki examine, among other things, fecal bacteria, water temperature and the presence of blue-green algae. It should be noted that the Vantaanjoki bank can be problematic during heavy rain; water quality may be affected for 2-3 days. In the last three years, temporary bathing bans have been imposed on several river beaches, which is important information for users.

The Helsinki Region Environmental Services Authority (HSY) takes care of water management. Special attention is paid to water quality, both for drinking water and for bathing water. Drinking water is obtained from Lake Päijänne through a rock tunnel and purified in two water treatment plants. The HSY Water Laboratory monitors water quality daily, and sanitation quality can be affected by wastewater discharges and stormwater runoff.

Information and tips for bathers

There are clear instructions for the safety of bathers and children: children should be in the care of their parents and the information boards on the beaches should always be read. Lifeguards are available to intervene in an emergency and provide helpful tips. There are also marked channels for SUP boards, rowing boats and kayaks on guarded beaches to ensure smooth sailing for all water sports enthusiasts.

The intensive surveillance this summer affects the beaches of Marjaniemi, Pikkukoski, Rastila, Iso Kallahti, Aurinkolahti, Hietaranta and Lauttasaari. Current water values ​​are on site and on the website ulkoliikunta.fi available so that all visitors are informed and can enjoy the cool water safely.

With the new measures and comprehensive water quality monitoring, the bathing season in Helsinki promises to be a safe and enjoyable experience for all bathers. At least the water quality in the Helsinki region is good and citizens can look forward to the hot days ahead.