Poison hemlock discovered near swimming beaches in Helsinki but swimming deemed safe

Near the swimming beaches of Pikkukoski, Pakila, and Tapaninvainio in Helsinki, a toxic plant known as poison hemlock has been discovered. However, authorities assure that swimming at these beaches is safe, as exposure to the plant’s toxins through the water is unlikely due to the toxins being contained within the intact plant.

The locations where the plant has been found have been cordoned off with caution tape, and warning signs are in place. Poison hemlock is highly toxic, containing a compound called coniine present in all its parts. If someone comes into contact with the plant, they should wash the affected area thoroughly for 10–15 minutes. Ingestion of the plant requires immediate medical attention.

City officials were alerted to the presence of poison hemlock through public observation. A city gardener conducted a review of the beaches, leading to the discovery of the plant at the three designated swimming areas. Areas were swiftly marked off with warning tape, according to Jukka Lundgren, team leader for Helsinki’s swimming beaches. They have also inspected coastal swimming areas but found no indication of the toxic plant there.

Poison hemlock blooms in July and August and can grow up to 1.5 meters tall, resembling the appearance of wild carrot. It typically thrives in the shallow waters of lush aquatic environments. Following the summer, removal of the plant from the identified locations is scheduled to begin. Lundgren emphasizes the need for ongoing monitoring of poison hemlock in the coming years due to its persistence.