RALEIGH, N.C. (WLOS) \u2014 The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s (DEQ) Division of Water Resources is warning the public to stay away from discolored water during the July 4th holiday.<\/p>\n
APPLICATION FOR UP TO $18 MILLION IN DEBRIS CLEANUP GRANTS OPEN FOR WNC HELENE RECOVERY<\/a><\/p>\n According to a news release, the discoloration of water could indicate the presence of an algal bloom, which is when a bunch of algae forms quickly in fresh water.<\/p>\n Blooms with excessive growth can be harmful to people, animals and the environment.<\/p>\n To protect against algal blooms, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services recommends the following:<\/p>\n Avoid touching large mats of algaeKeep children and pets away from water that appears bright green, blue, discolored or scummy Do not handle or touch large mats of algaeAvoid handling, cooking or eating dead fish that may be presentWash thoroughly if coming in contact with an algal bloomUse clean water to rinse off pets that may have come into contact with an algal bloom.If children appear ill after being in waters containing an algal bloom, seek medical care immediatelyIf pets appear to stumble, stagger, or collapse after being in a pond, lake or river, seek veterinary care immediately<\/p>\n SUMMER TESTING FOR E. COLI IN WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA WATER UNDERWAY<\/a><\/p>\n