A red level warning (high alert) has been issued for blue-green algae in Burrendong Dam from the Central West Regional Algal Coordinating Committee.
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A red alert level warning indicates that people should not undertake recreational activities where they may be coming into direct contact with the water such as swimming, as well as domestic uses including showering and washing.
Contact with the water may also pose a threat to livestock and pets.
Warning signs are positioned at key recreational areas and will remain in place while high levels of blue-green algae are present.
The species of blue-green algae identified are potentially toxic and may cause gastroenteritis in humans if consumed and skin and eye irritations after contact. Boiling the water does not remove algal toxins.
People are advised not to enter the water, not to drink untreated water or bathe in water drawn from the dam while this red alert level warning is in place.
Town water supplies remain unaffected and safe to drink.
Information updates can be obtained from the Regional Algal Coordinating Committee on 1800 999 457 or at www.water.nsw.gov.au.