EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — The R.I. Departments of Health and Environmental Management issued a joint advisory Monday warning that potentially dangerous blue-green algae blooms have been found in East Providence waters.
Officials advised people to avoid contact with water from Turner Reservoir, Central Pond, Omega Pond, and the portion of Ten Mile River that flows between Turner Reservoir and Omega Pond.
Blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, can produce toxins that can be harmful to humans and animals, according to officials. Because of this, they said to refrain from swimming, boating and fishing at those locations, and to make sure young children and pets are kept away from the water, since they’re more susceptible to adverse health effects.
Officials said skin contact with water contaminated with blue-green algae can cause irritation while ingesting contaminated water can result in symptoms including stomach ache, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea.
If you come into contact with water at any of the affected locations, officials say you should rinse your skin with clean water as soon as possible, and take a shower and wash your clothes as soon as you get home. If you experience any symptoms, contact your health care provider.
The advisory will remain in effect until further notice.
Bodies of water contaminated with blue-green algae can typically be identified by bright green coloration and/or floating algal mats on the surface, causing the water to look like green paint, thick pea soup, or green cottage cheese.
To report a suspected blue-green algae bloom, contact the DEM’s Office of Water Resources at (401) 222-4700 or by email at DEM.OWRCyano@dem.ri.gov, and include a picture if possible.
