The Torrington Area Health District has closed three public beaches on Bantam Lake after finding what could potentially be a harmful type of algae in the water.
Morris and Litchfield town officials decided to close Morris Town Beach, Sandy Beach and Litchfield Town Beach, which have been closed since Friday.
Torrington Area Health District officials told NBC Connecticut the recommended closure is based on a visual inspection of those beaches and the lack of clarity in the water.
They believe there is a potential of a blue-green algae bloom, which could produce harmful toxins in the water that can cause skin irritation and if ingested, lead to intestinal problems.
The observations were made last Thursday by the Torrington Area Health District.
Between the hot and humid weather Connecticut has had the last several days and the lack of rainfall, it makes for a positive environment for the algae blooms.
Now health district officials are testing the water every day.
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“My view was even to boaters going off of our boat launch where our beach is the potential of them getting in the water, getting splashed, possibly going into their mouth and things we said we’d close it down completely and that’s what we did,” Litchfield First Selectman, Leo Paul Jr. said.
Anyone who does come in contact with the water is advised to shower or hose off immediately.
Health district officials said some cool weather and rainfall could help get rid of the algae.
There’s no word on how long the beaches will be closed.
