The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit is advising residents and visitors near Turtle Lake to exercise caution after a potential blue-green algae bloom was reported by the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks on Oct. 14.
Officials say there is a risk that harmful toxins can be produced by blue-green algae. These toxins, which can stay in the water for up to three weeks after a bloom is gone, cause skin irritation, and if swallowed, diarrhea and vomiting.
Those who use the water of Turtle Lake may be affected depending on their closeness to the algae bloom. Wind direction, water flow, and other environmental conditions that cannot be predicted or controlled, make it difficult to determine where and when the bloom is present.
Individuals who live near where a bloom was reported or where a bloom is visible should exercise their judgment before using the water and follow these safety measures:
- Avoid using the water for drinking, swimming, bathing, or showering. Keep children and pets away from the bloom. Using a private water treatment system or boiling the water will not destroy the toxins. Private water systems relying on lake water should use an alternate drinking water source, such as bottled water.
- Avoid swimming and other water sports where a bloom is present.
- Do not allow pets or livestock to swim in or drink the water.
- If skin contact does occur with a bloom, wash with soap and water, then rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove algae.
For more information about harmful algae, visit myhealthunit.ca/algae or contact the Health Unit at 705-474-1400, Ext. 5400.
