The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) have issued a warning regarding Meshanticut Lake in Cranston due to a confirmed cyanobacteria bloom. Cyanobacteria, or blue-green algae, can form harmful algae blooms (HABs) under certain conditions. These blooms pose health risks for recreational activities such as swimming, fishing, boating, and kayaking.
Caution is advised throughout Meshanticut Lake as cyanobacteria HABs can shift locations within ponds and lakes. People are advised not to drink untreated water or consume fish from affected areas. Pet owners should prevent their pets from drinking or swimming in this water.
Contact with water containing toxin-producing cyanobacteria may cause skin irritation and other symptoms such as stomachache, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, dizziness, headache, fever, liver damage, and nervous system damage. Young children and pets are particularly vulnerable due to their likelihood of swallowing water during play.
In case of contact with a cyanobacteria HAB:
– Rinse skin with clean water immediately.
– Shower and wash clothes upon returning home.
– Wash exposed pets with clean water without allowing them to lick algae off their fur.
– Consult a veterinarian if pets show signs of illness like tiredness or vomiting.
– Seek medical attention if feeling unwell after exposure.
Affected waters may appear bright to dark green with thick algae on the surface resembling green paint or pea soup. Avoid contact if you observe these conditions.
To report suspected cyanobacteria blooms, contact DEM’s Office of Water Resources at 401-222-4700 Press 6 or email DEM.OWRCyano@dem.ri.gov with photographs if possible. More information is available on the Freshwater Cyanobacteria Tracker Dashboard at www.dem.ri.gov/bluegreen.
