The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued advisories warning of harmful algae in two area bodies of water.
An algae warning has been issued for Melvern Outlet Pond while algae watches have been issued for both Carbondale City Lake and Overbrook City Lake. Warning status means conditions are unsafe for both people and animals while a watch means a harmful algae bloom is either present or likely to develop and both people and animals are encouraged to stay away from those areas.
When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:
*Lake water is not safe to drink for pets or livestock.
*Lake water, regardless of blue-green algae status, should never be consumed by humans.
*Water contact should be avoided.
*Fish may be eaten if they are rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion is consumed, while all other parts are discarded.
*Do not allow pets to eat dried algae.
*If lake water contacts skin, wash with clean water as soon as possible.
*Avoid areas of visible algae accumulation.
During the watch status, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:
*Signage will be posted at all public access locations.
*Water may be unsafe for humans/animals.
*Avoid areas of algae accumulation and do not let people/pets eat dried algae or drink contaminated water.
*Swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing are discouraged near visible blooms.
*Boating and fishing are safe. However, inhalation of the spray may affect some individuals. Avoid direct contact with water, and wash with clean water after any contact.
*Clean fish well with potable water and eat fillet portion only.
Blue-green algae is highly toxic.
