Beware Of 2 Rhode Island Water Bodies, State Warns

Several bodies of water in Rhode Island are infected with dangerous algae blooms, two state agencies warned.

The Rhode Island Department of Health and Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management both advised avoiding contact with Edgewood Lake at Roger Williams Park in Providence and Briar Point Beach on Tiogue Lake in Coventry.

"All recreation, including swimming, fishing, boating and kayaking, is high risk to health and recommended to be avoided at these locations," the two departments said in a media release.

The blooms are caused by blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, which are naturally present in bodies of water, according to a media release, and "can produce toxins which can be harmful to humans and animals."

"People should not drink untreated water or eat fish from affected waterbodies," the release said, noting pet owners should keep their animals away from the water as well.

Simply touching the infected water "can cause symptoms such as skin rashes, sore throat and irritation of the eyes and nose," according to the release, and ingesting it "can cause stomachache, diarrhea, vomiting and nausea."

"More serious, but less common health effects associated with swallowing contaminated water may affect the liver and nervous system, cause irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or seizures," the release said.

See also:

• 19-Year-Old Charged With Deadly Providence Pedestrian Bridge Stabbing
• Rhode Island Most Wanted Fugitive On Run More Than 20 Years Nabbed On Sailboat: Feds
• 80-Year-Old North Kingstown Man Killed In East Greenwich Motorcycle Crash: Cops
• State Warns Rhode Island Residents Away From Potential Diarrhea Parasite Source
• Providence Man Charged With Sexual Assault: Cops