FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla.— The Florida Department of Health in Okaloosa County has lifted a Health Alert for the presence of harmful blue-green algal toxins in Coleman Lake.

If you see an algal bloom:

• You should not swim at this location
• Avoid getting water in your eyes, nose or mouth.
• You should not eat shellfish from this location.
• Rinse fish fillets with tap or bottled water. Throw out guts. Cook fish well.
• You should keep pets and livestock away from the waters in this location.

What do I do if I see an algal bloom?

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection collects and analyzes algal bloom samples. To report a bloom to DEP, call the toll-free hotline at 855-305-3903 or report online.

To report fish kills, contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute at 1-800-636-0511.

Report symptoms from exposure to a harmful algal bloom or any aquatic toxin to the Florida Poison Information Center, call 1-800-222-1222 to speak to a poison specialist immediately.

Contact your veterinarian if you believe your pet has become ill after consuming or having contact with blue-green algae contaminated water.

If you have other health questions or concerns about blue-green algae blooms, please call the Florida Department of Health in Okaloosa County at 850-344-0580.

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @HealthyFla. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.

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