Toxic Blue-Green Algae Found In 7 RI Lakes And Ponds

The Rhode Island Department of Health issued a warning Friday afternoon after toxic blue-green algae was found in seven bodies of water across Rhode Island, three in Roger Williams Park. All water recreation, including swimming, boating, kayaking and fishing, should be avoided, including pets.

Almy Pond in Newport, Sisson Pond in Portsmouth, JL Curran Reservoir in Cranston, Mashapaug Pond in Providence and, in Roger Williams Park, Pleasure Lake, Roosevelt Lake and Elm Lake all have algae in the water.

Coming into contact with the toxins can cause skin, nose eyes and/or throat irritation. If ingested, it can cause stomachache, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea and, rarely, dizziness, headache, fever or liver damage. Young children and pets are especially at risk.

Blue-green algae can produce toxins, including microcystins, that can harm humans and animals. In recent days, three dogs in North Carolina died after exposure to the toxins.

If you come in contact with the water, the department of health recommends rinsing your skin with clear water as soon as possible. Pets should be rinsed off right away, too, and should not be allowed to lick the algae from their fur. Call a vet right away if your pet shows any symptoms such as loss of energy or appetite, vomiting, diarrhea or unexplained sickness. Algae can stay in the water even after it is no longer visible.

Sisson Pond provides some drinking water for Newport Water, the main supplier of Newport, Middletown and Portsmouth. Despite the algae bloom, however, the water provided to homes is perfectly safe, as it is treated before delivery. The Department of Health said it is never safe to drink untreated water directly from any pond.

According to state law, it is illegal to swim or bathe in ponds that are used as sources of drinking water. Newport Water prohibits fishing in these bodies of water, as well.