Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) - Followup

To report a bloom: https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/66337b887ccd465ab7645c0a9c1bc5c0

 

For more information about HABs: https://www.dec.ny.gov/chemical/77118.html

For a picture gallery of types of blooms (most of these pictures are on the reporting page): https://www.dec.ny.gov/chemical/81962.html 
 

As a general rule of thumb, you should avoid any contact with a suspected bloom until the water clears. 

• People, pets and livestock should avoid contact with any floating mats, scums, or discolored water. Colors can include shades of green, blue-green, yellow, brown or red.
• Never drink, prepare food, cook, or make ice with untreated surface water, whether or not algae blooms are present. In addition to toxins, untreated surface water may contain bacteria, parasites, or viruses that could cause illness if consumed.
•  People not on public water supplies should not drink surface water during an algal bloom, even if it is treated, because in-home treatments such as boiling, disinfecting water with chlorine or ultraviolet (UV), and water filtration units do not protect people from HABs toxins.

• Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove algae.
• Stop using water and seek medical attention immediately if symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, skin, eye or throat irritation, allergic reactions, or breathing difficulties occur after drinking or having contact with blooms or untreated surface water.