Blue-Green Algae Found In 2 Roger Williams Park Lakes

CRANSTON, RI — Dangerous blue-green algae blooms were found in two lakes in Roger Williams Park, the Rhode Island Department of Health said. Visitors are advised to avoid all contact with the water.

Blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, were found in Polo and Roosevelt Lakes. The blooms can cause skin irritation or illness in both people and animals if touched or ingested, especially in pets and children.

Anyone who comes in contact with contaminated water should rinse their skin with clean water as soon as possible and take a shower and wash their clothes once at home. If a pet gets the water on them, clean them as soon as possible and do not allow them to lick the algae off their fur. Monitor for any signs of poisoning, which can include including loss of energy, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, or any unexplained sickness that occurs within a day or so after being in contact with water. Even after the algae is no longer visible in the water, the toxins can still be present.

Rhode Islanders can report suspected algae blooms by email, with a photo if possible, to DEM.OWRCyano@dem.ri.gov. A full list of advisories is available online.