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Public Pools

All articles tagged with #public pools

Are Public Pools Truly Clean? An Expert Explores Hidden Germs and Risks
health5 months ago

Are Public Pools Truly Clean? An Expert Explores Hidden Germs and Risks

Public pools can harbor germs like Cryptosporidium and Pseudomonas, but proper hygiene and precautions such as showering before and after swimming, avoiding swimming when sick, and not swallowing pool water can significantly reduce health risks. Chlorine kills many pathogens but doesn't eliminate all, and strong chlorine smells may indicate contamination. Following safety tips helps enjoy swimming while minimizing infection risks.

Experts Warn About Germs and Pee in Public Pools
health6 months ago

Experts Warn About Germs and Pee in Public Pools

Public pools can harbor germs like Cryptosporidium and Pseudomonas, which chlorine may not fully eliminate, especially if the water is contaminated or if swimmers don't follow hygiene practices. To reduce risks, shower before and after swimming, avoid swimming when sick or with open wounds, and practice good hygiene. A strong chlorine smell often indicates contamination rather than cleanliness.

"NYC Swimmers Beat the Heat in Pools Before Official Opening"
local-news1 year ago

"NYC Swimmers Beat the Heat in Pools Before Official Opening"

Two young men were spotted swimming in a closed public pool in Queens, NYC, weeks before the official opening date. Despite the pool being filled early due to construction, there were no lifeguards present, and police reported no trespassing complaints. The Department of Parks and Recreation emphasized the importance of swimming only during operating hours for safety.

"Decline in Public Pools Calls for Increased Home Pool Safety Awareness"
society2 years ago

"Decline in Public Pools Calls for Increased Home Pool Safety Awareness"

Public pools in America are disappearing, leaving many communities without access to swimming facilities. A legacy of segregation, privatization, and budget cuts has led to the decline of public pools in many cities. This disproportionately affects poor and minority groups, with 79% of children in families with incomes less than $50,000 having no or low swimming ability. As climate change worsens and extreme heat becomes more common, public pools are taking on an urgent public health role. However, they are becoming harder to find for those without backyard pools or access to private clubs. The loss of public pools has significant social and health implications, including limited opportunities for recreation, learning to swim, and staying active.

Lifeguard shortage threatens summer safety in the US.
society2 years ago

Lifeguard shortage threatens summer safety in the US.

A shortage of lifeguards is expected to impact over 50% of public pools in the US this summer, with poor pay and waning interest playing a part. Last summer, the shortage led to beach closures, shortened hours, and slashed community programs. The consequences can be fatal, as drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for children ages 5 to 14. Cities across the US are scrambling to hire lifeguards, and people are advised to check whether the pool or beach will have a lifeguard on the day of their visit, assign a water watcher, and make sure non-swimmers wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket.

Summer Swim Season Suffers Setbacks in Several Regions.
local-news2 years ago

Summer Swim Season Suffers Setbacks in Several Regions.

Many public pools in communities across the region are facing delayed openings or closures due to a shortage of lifeguards, severe disrepair, and construction. Allentown Mayor Matt Tuerk says his city had an easier time finding lifeguards once it lowered the minimum age required to start from 16 years to 15 years. The Fountain Hill Community Pool and the Catasauqua Pool have been closed for several seasons due to severe disrepair and concerns of possible sinkholes. The Fountain Hill Community Coalition said it's shooting for reopening next year. The Weona Park Pool in Pen Argyl received $500,000 for repairs, and two out of the three pools in Whitehall Township are closed "until further notice."