Water Danger

These warning signs are currently dotted all round Testwood Lakes in Hampshire. The message is simple— keep out of the water.

In fact swimming is banned year round, but the lakes are a favoured walk for dog owners, and it’s not unusual for dogs to take a dip, especially in hot weather.

But it is the combination of hot weather and water which leads to the problem of toxic algae on the water.

According to the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust which manages the Nature Reserve, the algae produces toxins which if swallowed can cause serious health problems for both humans and dogs.

Apparently, Blue-Green algae as it is called, is a naturally occurring bacteria that occurs in freshwater areas like lakes.

Southern Water which owns the reserve and the lakes monitors the water regularly for signs of the algae. And say it has reached danger levels