Stay Out Of Glocester's Lake Washington: State

GLOCESTER, RI — Lake Washington in Glocester is contaminated with harmful algae, two state agencies warned.

"All recreation, including swimming, fishing, boating and kayaking, is high risk to health and recommended to be avoided at this location," the Rhode Island Department of Health and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management said in a media release.

"People should not drink untreated water or eat fish from affected waterbodies," the release said. "Pet owners should not allow pets to drink or swim in this water."

Merely touching the infected water can cause "skin rashes, sore throat and irritation of the eyes and nose," according to the release.

"Swallowing water containing HABs can cause stomachache, diarrhea, vomiting and nausea," the release said. "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."

See also:

• Hasbro Laying Off Nearly 600 Rhode Island Workers: State
• Shots Fired During Pawtucket Eviction, Resident Takes Own Life: Police
• Rhode Island Seafood Company In Warren Recalls Clams: State
• Rhode Island Dangerous Drivers Targeted In 'Operation Wicked Safe'
• Rhode Island Housing Market Sees A Surprising Shift In Buyer Behavior