How Safe Is Your Pool Water?

It’s that time of year again – time to break out the swimsuits and enjoy some fun in the sun! But before you dive in, it’s important to make sure that your pool water is safe and clean. In this article, we’ll show you how to test your pool water and what to do if you find any problems.

 

CDC report on fecal matter in pools

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released a report on the levels of fecal matter found in pools. The report found that one in eight pools tested positive for fecal matter. This is a cause for concern because contact with contaminated water can lead to serious illnesses, such as diarrhea, skin infections, and respiratory infections.

There are steps that you can take to reduce the risk of becoming ill from swimming in a pool. First, make sure that the pool you are swimming in is well-maintained and chlorinated. Second, avoid swallowing pool water. Finally, shower before and after swimming to remove any contaminants that may be on your body.

How to tell if your pool is contaminated

If you’re concerned about the safety of your pool water, there are some things you can look for to see if it’s contaminated. First, check the pH level. If it’s below 7.0, that’s an indication that the water is too acidic and could be harmful. Also, look for any cloudy or murky water, as this could be a sign of bacteria or other contaminants. If you notice any of these things, it’s important to test the water and take appropriate action to clean it.

Health risks associated with swimming in contaminated water

Swimming in contaminated water can pose serious health risks. Some of the illnesses that can be contracted from swimming in contaminated water include:

• Gastrointestinal illnesses: Swallowing contaminated water can cause gastrointestinal illnesses such as diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach cramps.

• Skin infections: Contaminated water can cause skin infections, especially if there are open cuts or wounds.

• Ear infections: Water that is contaminated with bacteria or viruses can cause ear infections.

• respiratory infections: Swimming in contaminated water can also lead to respiratory infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia.

What to do if you suspect your pool is contaminated

If you suspect that your pool water is contaminated, the best thing to do is to contact your local health department. They will be able to test the water and determine if there is a problem. If there is a problem, they will work with you to resolve it.

 

It is important to test your pool water regularly to ensure that it is safe for swimming. There are a variety of tests that you can perform, and it is important to understand which ones are the most important. By testing your pool water regularly, you can be sure that you and your family are safe when swimming.