Blue-green algae risk prompts closure of Oakfield Beach

CITYnews halifax / By Dan Ahlstrand

Oakfield Beach near Enfield has been closed again this year due to the potential presence of a blue-green algae bloom.

Halifax Regional Municipality says blue-green algae naturally occur in freshwater environments and may grow when weather conditions are calm and warm. Some types produce toxins that can pose a risk to people and pets.

The municipality is encouraging anyone who comes into contact with water at the site to:

• Avoid contact with the water. If contact occurs, towel off vigorously and wash with tap water as soon as possible.
• Do not swim or wade — and do not allow children or pets to swim or wade — in areas where blue-green algae is visible or where swimming has been prohibited due to possible algae.
• Keep pets on a leash and prevent them from consuming algae material.
• Do not consume water from the lake.
• Avoid eating fish caught in the lake.

HRM says exposure to blue-green algae or ingestion of contaminated water may cause skin irritation, rash, sore throat, red eyes, swollen lips, fever, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. Children and immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk.