On February 2, 2024, we lifted the poisonous algae precautionary advisory for Spanaway Lake. The water is protected for individuals and pets.
At all times use warning when within the water. While you see algae, don’t swim, stroll, water ski, or fish. Understand that as wind path modifications, algae may transfer to different elements of the lake. When unsure, keep out of it!
Discover our checklist of present floor water advisories at www.tpchd.org/advisories.
What are poisonous algae?
Poisonous algae, also referred to as cyanobacteria, happen naturally in lakes. They will produce toxins that make individuals, pets, and animals sick. Learn our brochure to be taught extra about poisonous algae.
How can poisonous algae be detected?
Poisonous algae can type a layer of froth and resemble pea soup. They might even have a marbled look, be dispersed within the water column, or type clumps. Algae can have totally different colours, most frequently inexperienced but in addition brown, purple and bluish. Climate and wind circumstances can change the quantity and site of algae.
What are the signs?
- Muscular weak point.
- Vomiting.
- Diarrhea.
- Nausea.
See your medical supplier if you might have been in water with poisonous algae and have any of those signs. Younger kids are most in danger as they’ve small our bodies and are prone to ingest water.
Pores and skin involved with poisonous algae might grow to be irritated or trigger a rash. That is totally different from swimmer’s itch.
How can poisonous algae have an effect on my pets?
Pets are at nice threat. They’ve small our bodies and usually tend to ingest bigger quantities of poisonous algae. They might drink water with poisonous algae and lick their fur. Take your pet to the vet when any of those signs happen.
- Lethargy.
- Vomiting.
- Diarrhea.
- Seizures.
- Troublesome respiratory.
- Common weak point.
What ought to I do if I’m uncovered to poisonous algae?
You will get sick inside minutes or hours of publicity. Instantly rinse any individual or pet uncovered to poisonous algae. Search for indicators of sickness and search medical therapy if signs happen. For uncovered pets, forestall them from licking their fur to groom themselves.
Can I eat fish from water contaminated with poisonous algae?
Keep away from consuming fish from areas with seen algae. At all times clear the fish properly and discard the center.
What ought to I do if I see an algae bloom?
- Do not drink lake water.
- Don’t swim or water ski in areas with seen algae.
- Preserve pets and livestock away.
When unsure, keep away!
What causes poisonous algae?
Poisonous algae want mild, satisfactory temperature and vitamins. You may assist cut back vitamins and stop poisonous algae:
- Scale back fertilizer use.
- Preserve your septic system.
- Put pet waste within the trash.
Become involved with our group of Algae Watch volunteers. E mail ltuttle@tpchd.org to register.
Study extra at www.tpchd.org/toxicalgae. Discover our present floor water advisories at www.tpchd.org/advisories.