Take time, before play time! Be sure to check current water quality conditions for harmful algal bloom advisories before visiting a lake or other waterbody. With summer comes warmer temperatures and warmer waters. Algal blooms are more likely to grow in warm water. Some algal blooms produce toxins (poisons) that can harm people and animals and make them sick when they come in contact with them. We call these “Harmful Algal Blooms” or HABs. Harmful algal blooms can look like foam, scum, mats, or paint on the source of the water. You or your animals can get sick from harmful algal blooms if you go in or near water contaminated by harmful algal blooms, accidentally swallowing contaminated water while swimming or playing in the water, or eating contaminated fish.
That’s why it’s important to “take time, before play time” and protect your health by checking for any active swimming advisories at habs.utah.gov. You can also look for posted advisory signs like the one below. Follow advisory recommendations to avoid getting sick! When in doubt, stay out! If the water smells bad, looks discolored, has scum, mats of algae, or paint-like streaks on the surface, it’s best to stay out! Rise off after swimming or playing in the water and always wash your hands before eating or drinking. If you think you are experiencing symptoms from exposure to a bloom call your healthcare provider or call the Utah Poison Control Center: (800) 222-1222.
You can report a suspected bloom by calling the Utah Department of Environmental Quality spill line at (801) 536-4123.
