(WWJ) -- With Memorial Day unofficially marking the start of summer, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is reminding Michiganders to watch out for white foam in lakes, rivers and streams.
That foam can contain bacteria or harmful, unknown chemicals, life PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), so it is recommended to avoid contact.
Naturally occurring foam is usually brown or off-white and can have a fishy or earthy smell. It also tends to pile up in bays, eddies or at river barriers such as dams.
But officials say PFAS foam is bright white and can pile up on the water like shaving cream or blow onto beaches.
Anyone who comes into contact with foam should wash it off as soon as possible, particularly if PFAS contamination is suspected in the body of water. Officials say the longer that foam remains on skin, there is a greater chance of accidentally swallowing the foam or the residue it left behind.
MDHHS also says pets should not come into contact with foam and should never drink foamy water.
"Although current science shows that the risk of PFAS getting into your system from contact with skin is low, you can minimize exposure to PFAS by rinsing or showering after you are done with your recreational activities," said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy for health at MDHHS, per a press release. "In general, washing hands and rinsing off after recreating will help to protect people from chemicals and bacteria that may be in waterbodies."
MDHHS says PFAS are emerging contaminants and they are working to identify all waterbodies that may be effected, but they are encouraging Michiganders to keep an eye out this summer.
Health advisories have been issued for specific waterbodies where PFAS-containing foam has been found in the past. These specific advisories can be found in the "PFAS Foam on Lakes and Streams" section of Michigan.gov/PFASResponse, under "Testing."
More information on PFAS-containing foam can be found under the "PFAS Foam" section at Michigan.gov/PFASResponse. If you have questions about exposures to PFAS and/or foam, call the MDHHS Environmental Health hotline at 800-648-6942.
