Blue-Green Algae Found In Coventry's Johnson's Pond

COVENTRY, RI — A dangerous blue-green algae bloom was found in Coventry's Flat River Reservoir, the Rhode Island Department of Health advised.

The announcement came the same day that the department cleared the algae advisory for Briar Point Beach, also in Coventry.

Flat River Reservoir, also known as Johnson's Pond, has high levels of cyanobacteria, the department said. The toxins created by the bloom are dangerous to both people and animals.

The department urged Rhode Islanders to avoid all contact with the pond, including fishing, boating or kayaking, and especially ingesting the water. Pets are especially at risk, and should be kept away from the water.

Skin contact with affected water can cause irritation of the skin, nose, eyes or throat. Ingesting the water can cause stomachache, diarrhea, vomiting and nausea. Young children and pets are the most at risk, the department said.

Anyone who comes in contact with the water should rinse their skin with clean water as soon as possible and take a shower and wash their clothing once they get home. Do not allow pets to lick their fur clean, and bathe them as soon as possible.