A health advisory has been issued for Floatingstone Lake after blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) was found in the water.

Residents and visitors are being urged to avoid any areas where the algae is visible, as it can produce toxins that may be harmful to people and animals.

What you should do

If you’re planning to visit Floatingstone Lake, Alberta Health Services recommends:

• Do not swim or wade where blue-green algae is visible.
• Avoid touching algae in the water or along the shoreline. If you do come into contact with it, wash thoroughly with clean tap water as soon as possible.
• Do not drink or cook with lake water. Boiling the water will not remove the toxins.
• Avoid eating whole fish or fish trimmings from the lake, as toxins can build up in a fish’s liver. Fish fillets are considered a lower risk.
• Keep pets away from affected areas and do not allow them to swim in or drink the water.
• Do not feed whole fish or fish trimmings from the lake to pets.

Pet owners are reminded that exposure to blue-green algae can be fatal for animals.

What does blue-green algae look like?

Blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, occurs naturally and is more common during hot summer weather.

It can appear in several colours, including blue-green, greenish-brown, brown, pink or red. It may look like:

• Scum on the water
• Streaks or swirls
• Grass clippings
• Fuzz
• Spilled paint
• Pea soup

It can also have a musty or grassy smell.

Health risks

People who come into contact with blue-green algae or accidentally swallow contaminated water may experience:

• Skin irritation or rashes
• Sore throat
• Red or irritated eyes
• Swollen lips
• Fever
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea

Symptoms can appear within one to three hours and usually improve within a couple of days. Children may experience more severe symptoms than adults.

Advisory remains in effect

Officials note that wind and weather can move algae blooms to different parts of the lake, so conditions can change quickly.

The advisory will remain in effect until further notice.

Recreational activities can continue in areas of the lake where no visible bloom is present, but visitors are encouraged to stay alert as blooms can shift location.

Anyone with health concerns related to blue-green algae should contact Health Link by calling 811. More information is available through Alberta Health Services.