RIDOH lifts recreational activity advisory at Slack Reservoir in Smithfield

SMITHFIELD, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Department of Health and Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management said they have lifted an advisory to avoid recreational activity at Slack Reservoir in Smithfield.

The advisory was put in place due to a harmful algae bloom caused by blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria.

RIDOH said testing showed algae levels were low and no toxins were detected.

The department also said that water conditions can change quickly and the bloom may return, which would cause another advisory to be issued.

RIDOH said that skin contact with blue-green algae can irritate the skin, nose, eyes, and throat, while ingesting the algae can cause stomachache, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea, as well as dizziness, headache, fever, liver damage, and nervous system damage.

Animals suffering from blue-green algae poisoning can suffer symptoms including loss of energy, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, or any unexplained sickness.

Any person or pet who comes in contact with the contaminated water should wash off their skin with clean water as soon as possible, and then bathe and wash their clothes.

If a person or pet is experiencing symptoms a healthcare provider should be contacted.

More information on blue-green algae can be found here.