Tips for clean pools and safe swimming
To check that your public pool is properly chlorinated, the Water Quality and Health Council recommends the use of portable pool and spa testing strips. How clean and safe is the pool in which your family swims?
No matter if you swim in a public pool or one in your own backyard, the pool may not be as hygienic as you think.
According to a survey conducted by the Water Quality and Health Council, 84 percent of Americans believe their fellow swimmers participate in unhygienic pool behavior — and they appear to be right. In fact, almost half (47 percent) admit to questionable pool behavior.
For instance, one in five people surveyed admit to urinating in a pool, and eight in 10 are convinced their fellow swimmers are guilty. As far as showering goes — forget it. Roughly one-third (35 percent) pass the shower without stopping, and three-quarters (73 percent) say their fellow swimmers fail to shower before swimming.
Why should you care?
Most of those surveyed were unaware that contaminated pool water could cause illnesses. Unclean water can lead to recreational water illnesses: diarrhea, respiratory illness, and ear and skin infections. Children, pregnant women, and people with compromised immune systems can suffer from more severe illness if infected.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports these illnesses are on the rise. According to the latest available statistics, 78 outbreaks were reported in 31 states between 2005 and 2006 — the largest number of outbreaks ever in a two-year period.
"Swimming is a fun and healthy activity for old and young alike," said Michele Hlavsa, epidemiologist in the Division of Parasitic Diseases for the CDC. "Proper water chlorination helps protect swimmers from germs that can make them sick. But swimmers also have roles to play in maintaining a clean and healthy pool. Unhygienic behavior brings germs into the pool and makes it harder for chlorine to do its job."
Before diving in, said Hlavsa, consider the frequency of pool cleaning and chemical treatment, and check that chlorine levels are sufficient to maintain clean pool water.
To check that your public pool is properly chlorinated, the Water Quality and Health Council recommends the use of portable pool and spa testing strips, easily purchased at pool supply stores and discount retailers, in addition to trusting your basic senses.
The CDC urges pool users to follow these tips for healthy swimming:
• Don't swim when you have diarrhea.
• Don't swallow pool water. • Practice good hygiene. Shower with soap before swimming, and wash your hands after using the toilet or changing diapers.
• Take your kids on bathroom breaks or check diapers often.
• Change diapers in a bathroom or a diaper-changing area and not at poolside.
• Wash your children thoroughly (especially their rear ends) with soap and water before they go swimming.
Above all, trust what you see and smell when sizing up a pool for your family.
"A smelly pool is a dirty pool," explains National Consumers League President Emeritus and Water Quality and Health Council Vice-Chair Linda Golodner. "Look for water that's clean, clear and blue. Check for tiles that feel smooth and clean. Make sure there are no strong odors. Listen for pool cleaning equipment. Using your senses helps you recognize the difference between a healthy pool and one that needs cleaning and treatment."
Source: StatePoint.
