Roger Williams Park Ponds Infected With Harmful Algae

PROVIDENCE, RI — If you were thinking of cooling off in a Roger Williams Park pond, you might want to think again, two state agencies cautioned.

The Rhode Island Departments of Public Health and Environmental Management have warned the public to stay clear of Edgewood Lake, Cunliff Lake and Elm Lake due to dangerous algae.

"All recreation, including swimming, fishing, boating and kayaking, is high risk to health and recommended to be avoided at these locations," the two departments warned in a statement released Friday.

Within the last three weeks, the departments also recommended avoiding contact with the water in Newport's Almy Pond, Wenscott Reservoir in North Providence and Wilson Reservoir in Burrillville.

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

Contact with water containing blue-green algae can cause irritation of the skin, nose, eyes, and throat, according to the statement.

"Symptoms from ingestion of water can include stomachache, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea," the statement said. "Less common symptoms can include dizziness, headache, fever, liver damage, and nervous system damage."

Anyone who had contact with infected bodies of water and then experience symptoms should contact their health care provider, the departments said.

The departments recommended the following if you or your pet come into contact with the algae:

• Rinse your skin with clean water right away
• Shower and wash your cloths when you get home
• If your pet was exposed, wash it with clean water immediately and don't let it lick algae from its fur
• Call a vet if your pet shows signs of illness, such as fatigue, not eating, vomiting, diarrhea or other symptoms within a day
• If you feel sick after contact, call a health care provider

"Affected waters might look bright to dark green, with thick algae floating on the surface," the statement said. "It may resemble green paint, pea soup, or green cottage cheese. If you see water like this, people and pets should avoid contact with the water."

See also: Newport Pond Infected With Harmful Algae

See also: Beware Of Harmful Algae Blooms In Wilson Reservoir: State

See also: Harmful Algae Blooms Spotted In Another Rhode Island Reservoir: State