Survey Finds Piddling in Pool Common
“We don’t swim in your toilet. Please don’t pee in our pool”
- sign posted next to a private swimming pool
It’s sad, sad world when people have to put signs like this up.
One might be inclined to take the message as a joke except that according to survey conducted by the Water Quality and Health Council, “four fifths of those questioned believe that their fellow swimmers are guilty of relieving themselves without bothering to get out and find a bathroom. And one in six people polled admitted that they have indeed peed in the pool.”
This isn’t good. Swimming in unclean water can lead to recreational water illnesses (RWIs) such as diarrhea, respiratory illness, and ear and skin infections. Those most at risk are Children, pregnant women, and any one with a compromised immune systems.
So if you going to be swimming in pools this summer, aim to find ones that appear well maintained and clean. The water should be clear, clean, and blue. The tiles should feel smooth and clean. There should be no strong odors. And there should be the sounds of pool cleaning equipment humming in the background.
Furthermore, the CDC recommends…
- Avoid swallowing pool water.
- Shower with soap before swimming.
- Wash your hands after using the bathroom or changing diapers before getting in the pool.
And of course, if you are suffering from diarrhea, please don’t go into the pool. (you’d think that one was a given, but apparently not!)
(image from sxc.hu)
I’m not surprised that 1 in 6 people surveyed admitted to peeing in a pool. However, I’m willing to bet that the actual figure is closer to 4 or 5 out of 6. So, your advice is even more prudent than I think people realize.