Caution Blue-Green Algae in Wasi Lake

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Caution Blue-Green Algae in Wasi Lake

 

 

Friday, June 12, 2009

Kate Adams / BayToday.ca

 

 

North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit

News Release

 

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The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit wishes to advise that a bloom of blue-green algae has been detected on the South End of Wasi Lake, in the area of Bayview Road in the Township of Chisholm.

 

“This may be harmful to human health and the health of animals because these blooms have the potential to produce toxins.” says Mike Duncan, Program Manager of Environmental Health at the Health Unit. “If you draw your drinking water supply from Wasi Lake where algae are evident, it’s important to use an alternate source of water for drinking, cooking, washing dishes and bathing.”

 

The Health Unit advises the following precautions for residents of Wasi Lake, and any visitors to the area:

 

∙ Avoid using the water from Wasi Lake for drinking, cooking and bathing. Use an alternate source of water for these purposes.

NOTE- Boiling the water or using home water treatment devices will NOT destroy the toxins.

 

∙ Avoid swimming and other water sport activities that could increase the risk of algae material and toxins contacting your skin or being swallowed.

 

∙ Avoid using water from Wasi Lake for pets and livestock.

 

Fact Sheets with more information about Blue-Green Algae can be found at www.healthunit.biz on the front page in the Hot Topics Box. Fact Sheets will also be available at the Chisholm Township office. The Health Unit will provide further information as it becomes available.