Cyanobacteria: How to stay safe at the lake

Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) are bacteria that grow naturally in water. Colorful cyanobacteria blooms sometimes appear in local lakes. Blooms can make the water look cloudy or form layers of scum on the water’s surface that look like blue, green, gray or orange paint. Blooms are more common during warm weather but can happen at any time.

Some cyanobacteria blooms produce toxins that can make people sick and kill animals. That’s why it’s important to keep an eye out for algae blooms and other health hazards and be aware of public health advisories.

Before your day at the lake, make sure to:

• Keep an eye out for algae blooms and other health hazards. Do not go in the water if you notice unusual colors, scum, or dead fish or animals. You can report cyanobacteria blooms and other potential health hazards online or by calling 360-728-2235.

• Check for current lake and swimming beach advisories at kitsappublichealth.org/beaches. Sign up to receive advisories by email or text at kitsappublichealth.org/subscribe.

• Watch for cyanobacteria (toxic algae) warning signs posted at beaches, docks, and other public access points. During a cyanobacteria bloom:

  • Avoid contact with water in the lake and wash your skin thoroughly if you have contact with lake water.

  • Keep pets and livestock out of the water.

  • If you choose to eat fish caught during a cyanobacteria bloom, remove all fat, skin and organs from the fish and rinse fillets thoroughly.

When you get to the lake, keep an eye out for warning signs at public docks.

Kitsap Public Health investigates reports of cyanobacteria in lakes with public access. If samples show cyanobacteria in the lake are potentially toxic, we post warning signs at docks, beaches, and other access points, post updates to our website, and send out email and text notifications.