The Health Unit says that a harmful algae bloom has been found in Callander Bay on Lake Nipissing.
Callander Bay is located on the east end of the lake.
The Callander municipal drinking water is not affected, as the water plant is equipped to remove harmful algae bloom toxins. Private homeowners who draw lake water near the affected area are not able to remove the harmful algae, and therefore should not use the water. This includes drinking, cooking, bathing, and brushing teeth.
Using a private water system or boiling the water will NOT destroy the toxins.
The Health Unit suggests these precautions because of the harmful algae bloom:
- Do not use the water to drink if you’re a private homeowner who draws lake water near the affected area. It is safe to drink municipal water. The Callander municipal drinking water plant is equipped to remove harmful algae bloom toxins.
- Do not use untreated lake water for cooking, bathing, brushing teeth, and water sports. Note: Using a private water system or boiling the water will NOT destroy the toxins.
- Do not swim where there is algae.
- Keep pets away from the water.
- Some toxins can build up in fish and shellfish. Do not eat the liver, kidneys and other organs. Be careful not to cut the organs when filleting. Limit the amount of fish flesh you eat.
