Toxic Algae Found in R.I. Pond

Health officials are advising people to avoid a Middletown, Rhode Island, pond because of toxic algae.

The state Department of Health and the Department of Environmental Management say a blue-green algae bloom, or cyanobacteria, has been detected in Paradise Pond.

Blue-green algae cause toxins that can harm humans and animals.

Officials say people should not ingest the water and should not eat fish from the pond, and pets should not be allowed to swim in it.

Recreational activities in Paradise Pond are never allowed, since the pond supplies drinking water. However, officials say the pond is not currently used for drinking water because of a construction project and the town's public drinking water supply is not at risk.

The advisory will likely remain in effect through Nov. 1.