Blue-green algae blooms have already been spotted in some parts of Saskatchewan, and the province says more could pop up throughout the summer.
The provincial Ministry of Health and the Water Security Agency are encouraging people to avoid direct contact and not to consume any surface water where the algae is present. Pets and livestock should also be kept away from the blooms.
In a news release, the province said algae-contaminated water can cause red skin, sore throat, cramps, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Caution is advised when eating fish or shellfish caught in water where blooms are present.
Blue-green algae blooms are common in some parts of Saskatchewan during summer months when temperatures get warm. They usually form in shallow, slow moving water and can last as long as three weeks.
The blooms often give a shimmering, foamy appearance with a blue-green, bright blue, grey or tan colour.