Keeping Your Loved Ones Safe from Harmful Algal Blooms – Did you know that this is a time of year when harmful algal blooms can sometimes be found in local waterways such as streams, ponds, rivers, and lakes? Here’s information you can use to help protect yourself, your loved ones, and your pets! Find out all the deets right here on Newsymom!
This is Public Health is brought to you in partnership with the Tuscarawas County Health Department.
Did you know that this time of year can sometimes bring about a hidden danger in your local waterways? Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are a natural phenomenon that can occur in streams, ponds, rivers, and lakes, posing risks to both humans and the environment. To help protect yourself, your loved ones, and your pets, it’s essential to be aware of the signs and take some simple precautions when looking out for harmful algal blooms.
Harmful algal blooms happen when algae, those tiny plants that live in water, grow larger than usual. As these algae grow, they produce toxins that can be harmful to aquatic life, birds, animals, and even humans. Exposure to these toxins can happen in various ways, including swimming in or drinking contaminated water, breathing in water droplets containing toxins, and consuming fish or shellfish tainted with harmful algal bloom toxins. Symptoms of HAB exposure can range from mild irritation of the skin, eyes, nose, throat, and lungs to more serious issues like stomach pain, headaches, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, and even potential liver damage.
To minimize the risk of harmful algal blooms affecting you and your family, here are five things to look out for and some important precautions to take:
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Avoid Prolonged Exposure to Oddly Colored or Smelling Water: If you come across water that looks discolored, frothy, or has an unusual smell, it’s a good idea to avoid spending too much time in it. These could be early signs of harmful algal blooms.
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Rinse Off After Swimming or Wading: Even when there are no visible signs of HABs, it’s a good practice to rinse off with fresh water as soon as possible after swimming or wading in lake water. This can help remove any potential toxins that might be on your skin.
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Don’t Consume Lake Water: Regardless of whether you can see harmful algal blooms, never swallow, drink, or use lake water for cooking. The toxins produced by HABs can be present even when the water appears clear.
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Follow HAB Advisories: Pay attention to HAB advisories posted at beaches and boat ramps. These warnings are issued by authorities who monitor water quality and can provide crucial information about the safety of local water bodies.
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Keep Children and Pets Away from HAB Debris: Make sure children and pets stay away from harmful algal bloom debris found on the shore. If you or your children experience any symptoms of HAB-related illness, seek medical attention promptly. Similarly, avoid letting your pets lick HAB material from their fur, drink water containing HABs, or eat HAB-contaminated material. If your pet appears unwell, consult a veterinarian immediately.
If you suspect exposure to harmful algal blooms or experience symptoms related to HAB toxicity, it’s essential to take action promptly. Contact your healthcare provider or call the poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Additionally, you can reach out to your local health department, such as the Tuscarawas County Health Department’s Bureau of Environmental Health Services at (330) 343-5550 or via email at eh@tchdnow.org, for guidance and assistance.
While enjoying the beauty of nature’s waterways, it’s crucial to stay vigilant and informed about the potential risks posed by harmful algal blooms. By following these precautions and being aware of the signs, you can help protect yourself, your loved ones, and your pets from the harmful effects of HABs. For additional information and updates on harmful algal blooms, visit ohioalgaeinfo.com, and stay safe while enjoying your local waters.
Melissa Klatt
Reporting