Toxic Algae Advisory Lifted At Palmer Lake

GIG HARBOR, WA — The Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department has lifted a health advisory warning for the Key Peninsula's Palmer Lake.

Back in early October, the health department discovered toxic algae floating on the lake's surface, and issued an advisory asking the public to use caution when in or near the lake. Now, experts have double-checked the water and say it's safe once again for people and their pets.

That said, they do say that it's possible for the algae to make a recurrence, so it doesn't hurt to keep an eye out for algae before entering the water.

"Always use caution when you’re in the water," the health department said in a news release. "When you see algae, don’t swim, wade, waterski, or fish. Keep in mind as wind direction changes, the algae could move elsewhere in the lake. When in doubt, stay out!"

Algae is not a new problem for Palmer Lake, which had to be completely closed to the public last September for an especially dangerous algae bloom.

The algae are particularly threatening for pets, because they're more likely to drink the water or lick the toxins out of their fur. If your pet shows any of these symptoms after being exposed to algae, call a vet immediately:

• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Convulsions
• Difficulty breathing

Toxic algae can also cause symptoms like muscle weakness, vomiting, diarrhea and nausea in humans. If you or a pet are exposed to water containing the algae, experts say to rinse off immediately and keep a sharp eye out for symptoms.

>> Learn more about the advisory and algae safety from the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department.