Health Alert Issued Due to Harmful Algae Blooms in Cranston

News Summary

Health officials in Cranston, Rhode Island, have issued a warning regarding harmful blue-green algae blooms affecting local water bodies. Residents are advised to avoid recreational activities at JL Curran Reservoir and Blackamore Pond due to severe health risks. The algae can cause various symptoms including nausea and skin irritation, prompting authorities to recommend staying clear of contaminated waters. Warnings also extend to other reservoirs across the state, urging the public to prioritize health and safety amid summer recreational activities.

Cranston, Rhode Island –

Officials from the Rhode Island Departments of Public Health and Environmental Management have issued a warning regarding harmful algae blooms affecting multiple water bodies, specifically the JL Curran Reservoir and Blackamore Pond in Cranston. The presence of blue-green algae in these locations poses health risks to both humans and pets, prompting authorities to advise the public against any contact with these water bodies.

Warning Issued for Recreation

Individuals are strongly advised to avoid all recreational activities at the JL Curran Reservoir and Blackamore Pond. This includes swimming, fishing, boating, and kayaking, as these activities have been classified as high risk due to the contamination. Health officials emphasize that contact with the water can lead to symptoms ranging from mild to severe and should be avoided at all costs.

Health Risks Identified

Contact with water contaminated by blue-green algae can result in skin, nose, eye, and throat irritation. Ingesting such water may cause more severe symptoms, including stomach aches, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. Less frequently, individuals may experience dizziness, headaches, fever, liver damage, and nervous system complications. Anyone who has had contact with the contaminated waters and is experiencing symptoms is encouraged to seek medical attention promptly.

Identifying Contaminated Water

Health officials note that affected waters may exhibit characteristics such as bright to dark green colorations and a thick surface layer of algae that resembles substances like green paint, pea soup, or green cottage cheese. These visual cues can help the public identify water bodies that should be avoided.

Further Advisories Across the State

The warnings extend beyond Cranston, with similar advisories being issued for Flat River Reservoir (Johnson’s Pond) in Coventry, as well as Waterman and Slacks reservoirs in Smithfield. Boone Lake in Exeter is also under advisories due to harmful algae blooms. Residents are particularly cautioned not to drink untreated water and are advised against consuming fish from these contaminated water sources.

Pet Safety Precautions

Pet owners are urged to take precautions as well, being advised to prevent their pets from drinking or swimming in the contaminated lakes and ponds. The harmful effects of blue-green algae are not limited to humans and can also pose significant health risks to animals.

Changes in Advisory Status for Other Areas

While warnings are in effect for several water bodies due to harmful algae, health officials have recently lifted advisories at Carbuncle Pond in Coventry and Mishnock Lake in West Greenwich, following a notable reduction in blue-green algae levels. However, advisories recommending avoidance of contact remain for Thurston Gray Pond in Portsmouth and Little Beach in Smithfield and Johnston, with no end date provided.

Conclusion

The advisory for the affected water bodies will remain in effect until further notice, as officials continue to monitor the situation. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and heed all warnings to safeguard their health and that of their pets. With the summer months approaching, it is crucial for the public to prioritize safety while enjoying recreational water activities.

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Additional Resources

• Patch: Cranston’s JL Curran Reservoir, Blackamore Pond Infected with Algae
• Wikipedia: Harmful Algal Bloom
• Patch: Coventry’s Flat River Reservoir Infected with Algae
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Algae
• WPRI: Health Officials Warn of Toxic Algae Blooms in 3 RI Ponds
• Google Search: Algae Pollution Rhode Island
• Turn to 10: State Officials Issue Warning Over Harmful Blue-Green Algae Blooms
• Google News: Rhode Island Algae Alerts