Keep family members and pets safe by learning basics of harmful algal blooms

Source: California Water Boards

Photo: Figure 1 Harmful algal blooms observed at Clear Lake in July 2020

May 30, 2021 (Sacramento) -- With the Memorial Day weekend marking the unofficial start of a busy recreational water season and as temperatures soar in many areas, the State Water Resources Control Board is once again warning the public that harmful algal blooms, or HABs, tend to flourish in the summer and can have potentially serious health impacts for humans and pets.

The State Water Board urges recreational water users to visit its HABs web portal to educate themselves about the following before engaging in activities in and around lakes and streams:

By Brooks Hill

September 14, 2016 (San Diego's East County) - Almost everyone enjoys hanging out at the pool. Whether it’s in your own backyard or at an apartment complex, people love splashing in the water. Often times, though, pools are viewed simply as a means for fun and not an effective way to workout. Believe it or not, swimming is actually one of the most effective ways to workout and promotes both physical and mental health, and although summer is coming to a close a heated pool or the right recreational swimming or triathlon wetsuit can have you swimming all year round!

November 20, 2011 (San Diegio)--The County Department of Environmental Health has issued a General Advisory for coastal waters of San Diego County due to recent rainfall. Activities such as swimming, surfing and diving should be avoided in all coastal waters for 72 hours following rain due to elevated bacteria levels. This includes all coastal beaches, Mission Bay and San Diego Bay.