Cunard Beach. (SOURCE: Halifax Regional Municipality)
A risk advisory is out for Cunard Beach due to a possible blue-green algae bloom.
The city says you should avoid swimming at that lake until further notice.
Some types of blue-green algae produce toxins during blooms, which can pose a risk to people and pets.
“When an algae bloom is observed, a risk advisory is issued and initial testing is done to determine whether the algae bloom is toxin-producing,” the municipality says in a news release. “If the algae bloom is not toxin-producing, the risk advisory will be lifted and no further testing is required.”
If you do get close to the water you could experience skin irritation, rash, sore throat, sore red eyes, swollen lips, fever, and nausea.
Children and those who are immune-compromised are at a higher risk.
The municipality encourages lake users to take the following precautions:
- Avoid water contact. If contact occurs, wash with tap water as soon as possible.
- Do not swim or wade (or allow your pets to swim or wade) in any areas where blue-green algae is visible or in areas where a risk advisory has been issued.
- Avoid consuming water from this lake.
- Avoid consuming fish that has come from this lake.
Unsafe toxin levels can remain in the water even after the bloom is gone.
If the algae bloom is toxin-producing, further testing will be carried out and the risk advisory will remain in effect until test results show the water is within safe limits.
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