Public Health Says Beaches, Except Refugio, Are Fine For Swimming

Heading into the busy holiday weekend, the county Public Health Department says beachgoers can hit the water with peace of mind. Except for Refugio State Beach — closed since the May 19 oil spill — “beaches are open, and we believe they are safe,” said the department’s Susan Klein-Rothschild, adding that tar balls and oily water should be avoided and that tar should be cleaned from the skin if contact is made.