People and pets should avoid contact with Willow Lake in Roger Williams Park because of a harmful algae bloom, Rhode Island health and environmental officials said Oct. 30.
The advisory recommends avoiding swimming, fishing, boating and kayaking at the Providence lake. People should not drink untreated water or eat fish from affected water, and pets should not swim in or drink it.
The bloom is caused by cyanobacteria, often called blue-green algae. These naturally occurring organisms can produce toxins harmful to people and animals. Officials urge caution around all Roger Williams Park ponds because blooms can change location.
The advisory remains in place until further notice. Officials say water samples will be used to determine when it can be lifted.
Anyone exposed should rinse with clean water. A pet should be washed promptly and kept from licking algae from its fur. People who become ill should contact a healthcare provider; owners should call a veterinarian if an exposed pet develops symptoms. Suspected blooms can be reported to DEM.OWRCyano@dem.ri.gov.