"Staying informed and cautious is key during these hot summer months. Harmful algal blooms can pose significant health risks..." - Jan Spin, President of Americas, BlueGreen

Don’t Let Harmful Algae Crash Your Summer Splash: What You Need to Know to Stay Safe This Summer

Summer is here, and the heat is on! As temperatures soar across parts of the U.S. this summer, the impacts of extreme heat are becoming increasingly evident. As you head out to enjoy the sun and cool off in your favorite lakes and rivers, there's one sneaky party crasher you must watch out for: harmful algal blooms (HABs). These unwelcome guests love the warm weather just as much as we do, and their presence is more than just a nuisance – it can pose serious health risks. Here’s what you need to know to keep your summer safe and fun.

The Heat-Algae Connection

Harmful algal blooms, which are overgrowths of algae in water, thrive in warm conditions. When combined with abundant nutrients and pollutants in the water, extreme heat increases the frequency, duration, and intensity of harmful algal blooms.

"Warm water temperatures create an ideal environment for algae to grow rapidly, often leading to toxic blooms that can harm aquatic life and pose health risks to humans," explains Dr. Jessica Frost, U.S. Scientific Director at BlueGreen Water Technologies (BlueGreen). “That’s why it is so important to stay updated on local advisories and be cautious this summer. This can prevent illness and may even save your pet’s life.”

Nutrient-rich, warm water accelerates the growth of algae, leading to more frequent and severe blooms. Furthermore, the intense sunlight associated with heat waves provides perfect conditions for algae to multiply.

The Health Risks

Harmful algal blooms can produce toxins that are dangerous to both humans and animals. These toxins can cause a range of health issues, from skin irritation and gastrointestinal problems to more severe neurological and liver damage. It's crucial to recognize the signs of algal blooms and proactively avoid contact with contaminated water.

Jan Spin, President of Americas at BlueGreen, emphasizes, "Staying informed and cautious is key during these hot summer months. Harmful algal blooms can pose significant health risks, but with the right knowledge and precautions, you can enjoy the water safely."

Tips for Staying Safe This Summer

1. Stay Informed: Before heading to your favorite swimming spot, check for any advisories or warnings about water quality. State and local health departments and environmental agencies often provide updates on algal bloom occurrences.
2. Look for Signs: Avoid water that looks discolored, has a surface scum, or emits a foul odor. These can be indicators of an algal bloom.
3. Protect Your Pets: Keep pets away from water that might be contaminated. Dogs are particularly vulnerable as they tend to drink water and lick their fur after swimming.
4. Rinse Off: After swimming in natural water bodies, rinse off with clean water to remove any potential contaminants.
5. Report Blooms: If you spot a suspected algal bloom, report it to local authorities. This helps them monitor and manage the situation more effectively.
6. Avoid Consumption: Do not drink or cook with water from lakes, rivers, or ponds during a bloom. Boiling water does not remove algal toxins.

As we face another hot summer, understanding the connection between extreme heat and harmful algal blooms is crucial. By staying informed and taking simple precautions, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from the health risks associated with these blooms.

Remember, while enjoying the outdoors and cooling off in the water is a great way to beat the heat, safety should always come first. Keep these tips in mind and make the most of your summer safely.

Stay cool and stay safe this summer!

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