RI Health Department: Avoid Sisson Pond

PORTSMOUTH, RI—Blue-green algae has been spotted in Sisson Pond. People should avoid the water and not eat fish caught there, the state health department and department of environmental management said Friday. The algae is toxic to animals, so pets should not be allowed to play around the pond, drink the water or swim in Sisson Pond.

The order is staying in effect until further notice, the state said.

"Anyone who comes into contact with untreated water from Sisson Pond should rinse their skin with clean water as soon as possible, bathe, and wash their clothes," the state said. For a pet, a bath is the remedy, but a vet may have to be consulted in the animal shows symptoms, such as "loss of energy, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, or any unexplained sickness that occurs within a few days of contact with the water."

People may also have to consult a doctor if an illness develops.

To report suspected blue-green algae blooms, contact DEM's Office of Water Resources at 222-4700 or DEM.OWRCyano@dem.ri.gov.