WICHITA, Kan. (KAKE) - Lakes are oftentimes at the top of the fun list for holidays, but as we move into Memorial Day Weekend, make sure your lake of choice is safe.

Algal blooms are common and can cause serious issues if you come into contact with them. Symptoms include vomiting, rash, sore throat, headache, and even diarrhea.

According to Marion County Park and Lake Director Isaac Hett, the first thing you should do before visiting a lake is check the Kansas Department of Health and Environment's (KDHE) website for harmful algal blooms. Hett said they do weekly testing and will have a list of all the lakes

"Even if the bloom is there and you're not in the water but you're up next to the water it can still affect you," Hett said. "It's probably not going to be deadly but it can still cause some complications."

Hett adds if you come into contact with the bloom, shower immediately, and if you have more severe symptoms, call your local hospital.