Blue-green algae found in Callander Bay

North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit
News Release

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The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit wishes to advise that a bloom of blue-green algae was detected in the municipality of Callander on the South and East shores near South Beach on Main Street South, and at the North Bay Yacht Club on Greenwood Road. This assessment occurred following requests from the Municipality of Callander on behalf of concerned citizens.

“Those area residents who receive their drinking water from the local municipal water supply are not at risk because the municipal treatment process will remove blue-green algae and the toxins.” said Peter Jekel, Director of Environmental Health. “However, owners of private water systems should avoid using the water from Callander Bay because home treatment devices will NOT destroy the toxins.”

The Municipality of Callander is cooperating fully with the Ministry of the Environment and the Health Unit in terms of advice and notice to the public. The operator of Callander’s water treatment plant has activated all of the appropriate steps for the safety of the municipal water supply.

While the blue-green algae may not show the presence of toxins, there is always the risk that toxins could be produced. These toxins may stay in the water for up to three weeks after the algae bloom is gone.

The Health Unit advises residents of Callander Bay and any visitors to the area to take the following precautions for three weeks after the bloom has disappeared:

• Avoid swimming and other water sport activities that could increase the risk of algae material and toxins contacting your skin or being swallowed.
• Avoid using water from Callander Bay for pets.
• Owners of private water systems should avoid using the water from Callander Bay for drinking, cooking and bathing. Use an alternate source of water for these purposes. NOTE- Boiling the water or using home water treatment devices will NOT destroy the toxins.

Fact Sheets with more information about Blue-Green Algae can be found at www.healthunit.biz in the HOT TOPICS box. The Health Unit will provide further information as it becomes available.

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