Safety, , , ,

On a sweltering hot day, jumping into your backyard swimming pool seems like the perfect solution. However, if it’s not properly monitored, the water can harbor bacteria, viruses and parasites that can cause what the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) call recreational water illnesses. These ailments include ear and eye infections and respiratory, intestinal, and skin diseases. According to the CDC, reported cases have more than tripled in the past 20 years. Therefore, it’s important to take the appropriate steps to minimize infections and evaluate pool water for safety.

How to Minimize Infections: 

  1. Be diligent about hygiene.
  2. Change diapered children well away from the pool and its surrounding deck, and make sure all swimmers take frequent bathroom breaks.
  3. Remind swimmers not to swallow pool water and to shower with soap each time they enter or leave the pool.
  4. Don’t allow pets in the water.
  5. Don’t allow anyone who has an infection or illness to enter the pool area. And have a plan—and implement it immediately—if anything occurs that contaminates the water.

How to Evaluate Pool Water for Safety:

  1. Check the water pH and chlorine levels regularly—or have it monitored regularly by a professional pool service—particularly during times of heavy use.
  2. Water should be clear enough that you can see any painted stripes and the bottom of the pool.
  3. The sides of the pool should be smooth and not sticky or slippery.
  4. A well-chlorinated pool has little odor, while a strong chemical smell indicates a maintenance problem.
  5. Make sure the pool pumps and filtration systems are in good repair and operating as they should.
  6. Ensure that pool chemicals have been stored and applied properly—a professional pool service can do this for you on a prescribed schedule.

Swimming pools are a great source of recreation, exercise and relaxation, and a little vigilance on your part can help ensure that you and your guests don’t get sick. Visit www.cdc.gov/healthywater/swimming/protection/pool-user-tips-factsheet.html for more information about pool water safety.