(WWJ) Headed into the Memorial Day weekend, when many Michiganders will visit parks and beaches, it's time again for a reminder about the foam.
State health and agricultural officials are urging residents and visitors to stay away from foam found on Michigan lakes, rivers, streams, and other surface waters this spring and summer.
While foam can form naturally on any body of water, it can also contain harmful chemicals and bacteria, including high levels of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals linked to adverse health effects, such as elevated cholesterol and liver damage.
What to Look For
Foam can accumulate in bays, eddies, and near dams or river barriers. It typically features the following characteristics:
- Color: White, off-white, or brown.
- Scent: May have an earthy or fishy odor.
Risks and Safety Recommendations for People
While the skin acts as an effective barrier against PFAS, the primary risk comes from accidental ingestion. Touching foam without washing afterward increases the risk of swallowing the chemicals, bacteria, algae, or viruses trapped within it.
"The risk of PFAS exposure through your skin is low. However, you can accidentally swallow PFAS, as well as bacteria, algae, viruses and other chemicals, if you do not rinse off or bathe after touching foam," said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). "Rinsing off or bathing after water activities will help protect you, your family and your pets."
If you or your family members come into contact with foam, officials recommend rinsing off or bathing with fresh water as soon as possible.
Keeping Pets Safe
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is also advising pet owners to keep animals away from water foam.
Pets face a unique risk because they can swallow harmful foam residue while grooming themselves if it builds up in their fur.
- Action to take: If a pet touches or swims through foam, rinse and bathe them with fresh water immediately.
- Medical concerns: Pet owners with specific questions or concerns about their animal's health after foam exposure should contact their veterinarian.
Anyone with questions about exposure to PFAS or foam can call the MDHHS Environmental Health Hotline at 800-648-6942.
Ger more information at this link: FAQ: PFAS foam on lakes and streams, including a form to report suspected PFAS foam. For more information about PFAS, visit Michigan.gov/PFAS.
Avoid it if you can, always rinse it off, and report it
Avoid it if you can, always rinse it off, and report it
