Stay Out Of Charlestown's Watchaug Pond, Rhode Island Agencies Caution

CHARLESTOWN, RI — Watchaug Pond in Charlestown is contaminated with harmful algae blooms, two Rhode Island agencies warned.

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

All recreation, including swimming, fishing, boating and kayaking, is high risk to health and recommended to be avoided at this location.

"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.

"Skin contact with water containing HABs can cause symptoms such as skin rashes, sore throat and irritation of the eyes and nose," the release said.

Swallowing infected water "can cause stomachache, diarrhea, vomiting and nausea," according to the release.

"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.

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