People get sick every year from bacteria found in public pools. Chlorine is used as a disinfectant to kill the bacteria. But the strong odor you are smelling is not just the chlorine but a combination of chlorine and bacteria, urine and sweat. Yuck! And when public pools are not property disinfected, people can experience diarrhea, weight loss, nausea, vomiting, dehydration and stomach cramps from bacteria, parasites and viruses.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, every year there are about 15 to 20 reported outbreaks of diseases such as stomach bugs and diarrhea that are caused by dirty public pools. So, how can you protect yourself from dirty public pools? Here are a few tips.
- Make sure the water is clear enough that you can see the bottom
- Make sure the pool tiles don't feel slimy--that's not a good sign
- You should be able to hear the sound of the pool pump working
- Don't swallow pool water
Everyone can also help keep the pool clean by showing before they enter the pool and making sure small children are taken to the bathroom regularly.
