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Birch Cove Beach closed to swimming due to possible blue-green algae bloom
The Halifax Regional Municipality is advising residents that due to the presence of toxin-producing blue-green algae bloom, Birch Cove Beach in Dartmouth is closed for recreational use. Birch Cove Beach was previously closed due to high bacteria concentrations.
Blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) is naturally occurring in freshwater environments and may grow when weather conditions are calm and warm. Some types of blue-green algae produce toxins which can pose a risk to pets and people.
Water users are encouraged to take the following precautions:
- Avoid water contact. If contact occurs, towel off vigorously and wash with tap water as soon as possible.
- Do not swim or wade (or allow your pets to swim or wade) in any areas where blue-green algae is visible or in areas that have been closed to swimming due to possible blue-green algae.
- Keep pets on-leash and do not allow them to consume blue-green algae material.
- Avoid consuming water from this lake.
- Avoid consuming fish that has come from this lake.
People who come in contact with blue-green algae blooms or who ingest water containing blue-green algae blooms may experience skin irritation, rash, sore throat, sore red eyes, swollen lips, fever, nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea. Children and immune-compromised individuals are at a higher risk. If you have these symptoms, please seek medical assistance.
When a blue-green algae bloom or mat is observed, a beach closure is issued and initial testing is done to determine whether the algae bloom is toxin producing. If the algae bloom is not toxin producing, no further testing is required, and the beach will be reopened.
If the algae bloom is toxin producing, further testing will be carried out and the beach will remain closed until blooms have disappeared and post-bloom test results indicate the toxin concentration water is within safe limits, as determined by Health Canada.
To learn more about blue-green algae
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