Local and state officials around Vermont are advising people to call local and state park authorities or check their web sites before trying to beat the heat by heading to the nearest beach or swimming hole.
Flooding in some areas has caused restricted access to some waters, and officials say beaches occasionally face public health threats, especially after rain storms. The threats can include toxic algae blooms, E. coli outbreaks and viruses that can lead to illness and, in rare cases, death.
Many cities and towns, as well as the Vermont state parks, maintain web sites that can post notices of conditions at popular swimming spots.
Burlington, South Burlington and Colchester are among the communities that post updates on swimming conditions on the web.