Tips for staying healthy at a public pool

James Dunsford

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Fathers should encourage kids to wash hands after swimming in public pools to avoid getting sick

While the weather heats up across the nation, many families may seek relief and recreation by taking a dip in a public pool. However, a new report issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has found many pools aren't as clean as they appear.

According to ABC News, the CDC found that one out of every eight pools it inspected had to be closed immediately for serious violations. The violations included improper chlorine and pH levels - both of which can increase swimmers' risk of getting sick with viruses and intestinal infections.

Fathers are encouraged to help keep themselves and their children healthy while using public pools by asking officials what the water's pH level is each day. It should be between 7.2 and 7.8.

In addition, the CDC recommends that people avoid swimming if they have diarrhea, avoid swallowing pool water, shower with soap before getting into the pool, and wash their hands after getting out.

Officials say shallow "kiddie" pools are often harder to keep clean so dads need to ensure their kids wash up after a dip. Keeping an eye on diapers is important as well to avoid spreading additional germs.

"Parents have to be very observant," Vanderbilt University's Dr. William Schaffner told the news provider. "They need to change their children's diapers away from the side of the pool and also check their children's bottoms after they go swimming."
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