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Free app launched by charity to give beach-goers real-time pollution updates
A new app giving sunbathers and surfers real-time updates about pollution incidents on beaches has launched in the UK, following development by the charity Surfers Against Sewage (SAS).
Funded by the Environment Agency, the free Sewage Alert Service sends texts and alerts about sewage discharges and storm water across 250 beaches in England and Wales.
The app was developed in response to concerns about a rise in sewage spills, which can contribute to the development of illnesses amongst beach-goers.
The software uses data from water companies about sewage overflows, which increase during periods of heavy rain to prevent sewer blockages. Once the overflows occur, untreated sewage can leak into coastal waters.
Users of the app will recieve text messages or alerts when pollution levels at beaches are high. Information will also be posted online regarding the severity of levels.
The Sewage Alert Service will also inform users about other sources of pollution, such as diffuse pollution and sanitary related debris, while also giving users the option to report pollution incidents to the Environment Agency and push water companies for better standards.
SAS hopes the app will prevent people from developing stomach bugs, as well as chest, skin, eye, ear and throat infections.
The service was recently tested on three beaches in Cornwall, UK.
The app can be downloaded for both iPhone and Android smartphones. More information is available here: http://lei.sr?a=E1m4y