Officials in Quispamsis and with the province are investigating the discovery of three dead raccoons in Ritchie Lake.
The carcasses will be sent to Fredericton for an examination.
Water samples have been collected by the Department of Environment for further testing to see if the deaths were caused by blue-green algae.
It may take a couple of weeks before the results come back.
Some algae can produce toxins that irritate the skin, eyes and throat and it can be lethal for dogs.
“At this time, we don’t know how the raccoons died,” said Mayor Gary Clark. “There is no conclusive evidence. However, out of an abundance of caution, we are advising our residents to be careful at Ritchie Lake.”
Public Health suggests people don’t swallow lake or river water when swimming and keep a close eye on children and pets.
They also recommend bathing or showering right after you swim.
