SARASOTA COUNTY, Fla. — Thinking of hitting the beach this weekend? Well, you might want to check that out.

A health alert has been issued for several beaches in Sarasota County after low to medium levels of red tide were detected, the Florida Department of Health in Sarasota County said.

Water samples showing signs of red tide were placed at the following beaches:

• Bird Key Park Beach
• North Lido beach
• Lido Casino Beach
• Siesta Key Beach
• Turtle Beach
• Nokomis Beach
• North Jetty Beach
• Venice Beach
• Service Club Beach
• Venice fishing pier
• Brohard Park Beach
• Manasota Key Beach

Health officials said anyone in or around these areas should be cautious. It is important to look for informational signs posted at most public beaches and to check the current water quality. You can do this by visiting Protecting Florida Together.

Health officials are advising people not to swim in or around red tide, wash their skin or clothing with soap and fresh water if they have come in contact with it, not eat shellfish or dead fish from these locations, and keep pets away from company. from the water. People living near these areas are encouraged to close windows and run air conditioners.

To learn more about how to protect yourself from the red tide, click Here.

The red sea is a type of microscopic algae caused by high concentrations of a toxin-producing dinoflagellate called K. brevis. If you come into contact with it, you may experience skin irritation, rashes, and burning or sore eyes.

Health officials encourage anyone who sees dead fish on these beaches to report it Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.