05 | 18 | 2008 Posted By Regan Zambri & Long

Public Health Tips to Prevent Summer Swimming Illness

In the hottest months of summer the shimmering of a clear, blue pool of water can seem like the best part of the season.  Unfortunately, swimming pools can harbor strains of bacteria that can ruin your summer vacation if you're not careful.  The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has designated the week of May 19 - 25, 2008 as Recreational Water Illness Prevention Week.  The event is designed to draw attention to the potential dangers posed by improperly maintained swimming pools and the importance of healthy swimming practices. 

The agency recommends that swimmers take a careful look at swimming pools before diving in to help prevent Recreational Water Illness.  Among the most important things to observe are the following:

  • "Clean and clear pool water; you should be able to clearly see any painted stripes and the bottom of the pool.
  • Smooth sides; tiles should not be sticky or slippery.
  • No odor; a well-chlorinated pool has little odor.  A strong chemical smell indicates a maintenance problem. 
  • Pool equipment working; pool pumps and filtration systems make noise and you should hear them running."

The agency also recommends that swimmers ask the following questions of pool maintenance staff, to determine the safety of the water:

  • "What specialized training did the staff take to prepare for working at or operating the pool?
  • Are chlorine and pH levels checked at least twice per day?
  • Are these levels checked during times when the pool is most heavily used?
  • Are trained operation staff available during the weekends when the pool is most heavily used?
  • What was the health inspector's grade for the pool after its last inspection?"

Previously on the DC Metro Area Medical Malpractice Law Blog, we have posted articles related to:

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