People swimming in areas without lifeguards are taking a risk. If you do swim without the presence of a lifeguard always know the weather conditions and your own physical limitations. Children should always wear life jackets when they are in the water or on a boat. The lake bottom drops off quickly, and summer storms can turn a calm lake into an un-swimmable lake in a short time. One concern while swimming is the quality of the water.
High bacteria counts in the water close beaches each year.
One source of bacteria and the nutrients bacteria thrive on are the ducks and geese that reside on and visit Keuka Lake. Although it is great fun to feed them, concentrations of these animal result in concentration of their wastes. Many of us enjoy the pleasures of a backyard swimming pool or a relaxing hot tub. Both require substantial doses of chemicals, especially chlorine, to keep the water bacteria-free. When draining either a pool or hot tub, take care to prevent chlorine from contaminating storm drains, nearby streams or the lake.