There are few things more inviting than a cool, clear pool on a hot summer
day. But a new federal report will have you thinking twice before dipping a toe
in the water.
And while the study only focused on pools in the Atlanta region, the
researchers said it's likely that faecal contamination from swimmers is a
problem in public pools throughout the country. The study did not look at water
parks, residential pools or other types of recreational water.
- Don't swim if you have diarrhoea.
- Shower with soap before swimming.
- Take a rinse shower before getting back in the water.
- Go to the bathroom every 60 minutes.
- Wash your hands with soap after using the toilet or changing diapers.
- Don't swallow the water you swim in.
- Take children on bathroom breaks every 60 minutes or check diapers every 30
to 60 minutes.
- Change diapers in the bathroom or diaper-changing area and not at poolside
where germs can rinse into the water.
For more on healthy swimming visit the US Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention.