Malaysia is currently experiencing its hottest weather, indicating it’s prime season for swimming pools! If you’re someone who relishes a cool dip to combat the warmth, or if you prefer to spend long hours floating leisurely, it’s clear that swimming pools become crucial in the summertime. Nonetheless, there’s a possible issue you may not have considered when diving in. Astonishingly, the water in your pool could be a hiding spot for bacteria.
Germs in your swimming pool can cause all sorts of infections, ranging from ear infections and pink eye to more serious illnesses like meningitis. The good news is that there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your family from these harmful germs.
Always shower before and after getting in the pool
When you go swimming, you are exposing yourself to many different types of germs that can make you sick. Some of these germs can cause respiratory illnesses, such as Legionnaires’ disease, and others can cause skin infections, such as MRSA. One of the best ways to protect yourself from these germs is to shower before getting in the pool. This will remove any dirt, sweat or other debris that may be on your body, and it will also help to rinse off any pool chemicals that may be present. In addition, showering after swimming will also help to remove any harmful germs that you may have picked up during your swim. By taking these simple precautions, you can help to keep yourself safe from the dangers of swimming pool germs.
Keep your swimming area clean
Another way to protect yourself from germs in your pool is to make sure that the area around the pool is clean. This means keeping the deck and surrounding areas free of debris and clutter. It also means regularly cleaning and disinfecting any surfaces that come into contact with swimmers, such as lounge chairs, tables and umbrellas. For example, you should make sure to clean and disinfect your pool deck at least once a week. This can eliminate many of the harmful germs that can cause illness.
If you’re still worried about the germs in your swimming pool, you can always consult with a swimming pool contractor. They will be able to advise you on the best ways to keep your pool clean and safe for swimming. They can also help you to troubleshoot any problems that you may be having with your pool.
Wear proper footwear when walking around the pool area
This will help to protect your feet from cuts and scrapes, which can provide an entry point for bacteria and other harmful microbes. Proper footwear will also help to keep your feet clean and free of debris. This can be especially important if you have any open wounds on your feet. A cut on your foot can easily become infected if it comes into contact with contaminated pool water. So, be sure to wear proper footwear when walking around the pool area.
Don’t swallow any pool water
It may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s important to remember not to swallow any pool water. This is because swallowing pool water can put you at risk for getting sick. In fact, some of the most common infections that are linked to swimming pools, such as gastroenteritis, are caused by swallowing contaminated water. So, be sure to keep your mouth closed when swimming and avoid drinking any pool water. If you do accidentally swallow some pool water, be sure to drink plenty of fluids and see a doctor if you start to feel sick. You should also avoid getting water in your nose, as this can also lead to infection.
Use a pool cover
A pool cover is a great way to be safe from germs in a swimming pool. By covering the pool, you can help to prevent evaporation and keep the water clean. A pool cover can also help to keep leaves and other debris out of the pool, making it easier to keep the pool clean. This is especially important if you have young children, as they are more likely to put objects in their mouths.
A pool cover can also help to reduce the number of chemicals needed to maintain a safe and healthy pool. For example, you can use less chlorine if you have a pool cover. This can help to reduce the number of harmful chemicals that you and your family are exposed to. You can also use a pool cover to keep the water warm, which can help to reduce the amount of energy needed to heat the pool.
Conclusion
Yes, you should be worried about the germs in your swimming pool. They can cause a variety of illnesses, some of which can be serious. However, you can protect yourself from these dangers by taking some simple precautions. For example, you should shower before swimming and avoid swallowing any pool water. You should also make sure to keep your pool area clean and use a pool cover. By taking these steps, you can help to keep yourself and your family safe from the harmful germs in your swimming pool.