Caution: Toxic algae afloat in Lake Steilacoom

Keep your kids and pets out of Lake Steilacoom. A toxic algae bloom is underway.

The Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department issued an advisory Wednesday for areas of the Lakewood lake with algae. The health department urges people to not swim, wade, water ski, or fish in areas with algae.

The lake is stocked with rainbow trout.

The toxic algae can be easily identified from its unusual color or appearance. Usually, a bloom looks pea soup green but sometimes can be bluish or brownish, the health department said.

Swallowing or skin contact with the water can result in illness, such as muscle weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, and/or nausea.

Cox Media Group