Florida county issues water safety warning

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Aug. 23 (UPI) -- State officials say no one should go swimming in waters off the coast of Broward County, Fla., following possible sewage and septic spills in the area.

Florida Department of Health officials warned area residents of the potential risks associated with contact with the potentially contaminated water, which could have been tainted during Tropical Storm Fay, the South Florida Sun-Sentinel reported Saturday.

The water safety warning Friday came after the storm lashed portions of Florida, leaving officials to suspect sewage systems near area beaches could have been damaged and released their toxic contents.

As a precaution, health officials have advised residents not to swim in area waters until a thorough inspection of the water supply can be conducted.

The Sun-Sentinel said health department and city officials are expected to complete their tests by Wednesday before announcing a final ruling on any potential contamination.