Beware white foam, health officials say | News, Sports, Jobs

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A portion of the Lake Huron shoreline seems on this August 2020 News archive picture.

ALPENA — Michiganders and guests ought to keep away from foam on lakes, rivers, and different our bodies of water, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services really useful right now.

Foam can comprise dangerous chemical compounds, together with excessive ranges of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS.

Bright white, light-weight foam piled alongside shores or blown onto seashores might comprise PFAS, which presents health dangers for individuals who come into contact with it, the DHHS stated.

Health officials advocate rinsing or bathing after contact with doubtlessly hazardous foam.

Natural foam, with out PFAS, normally seems off-white or brown, has an earthy or fishy odor, and tends to pile up in bays, in swirling water, or at river obstacles corresponding to dams.