How safe is the Charles River for swimming? An environmental expert weighs in

During a heat wave in June, Boston residents are desperate for relief from the hot weather but is the Charles River safe to swim in? WBZ-TV's Laura Haefeli reports.

[@gary_beniford]

This sounds like the Charles is more or less clean, but a more accurate report could have been third-party testing the reporters use to verify

[@moon_dog4]

As a kid growing up near the Charles River in the 60's, and 70s,
swimming was off limits and it was commonly said if you fell in you had to get a tetanus shot

[@stevensweet8834]

I will say it is much cleaner than the 70s and 80s. Back then poop turds would flow in it in Hopedale, MA . Now that area is much cleaner. Swim but don't drink it.

[@tomp8871]

He didn't say what part of the Charles, I'm sure he's way inland where it is clean , just didn't mention that.

[@RatTerminator]

Gross!!
I wouldnt swim at Carson beach either!!

[@RatTerminator]

No fkn way!!

[@ShaneCydrus]

Crazy idea, but hear me out, just stay inside and out of the heat?

[@Lilikoi2024]

In college, years ago, we’d have to get tetanus shots to be on the sailing team - sailing on the Charles River.