Pool News
The Dirty Truth About Public Pools
![The Dirty Truth About Public Pools](https://www.poolmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/dirty-truth-behind-public-pools.jpg)
Ah, summertime—the season of vacations, sunscreen, and the perpetual challenge of keeping restless kids entertained. But before you eagerly take the plunge into the inviting waters one of your favorite public pools it’s crucial to uncover the unspoken truths that lie beneath the surface.
Public pools have long held a notorious reputation for harboring more than just playful splashes. For those who pride themselves on their germophobia, the common belief of “ignorance is bliss” simply doesn’t apply in the realm of scientific facts. Brace yourself, for the revelations to come are more cringe-worthy than fiction itself. Prepare to dive deep into a world where truth prevails and surprises lurk around every corner.
Just How Dirty Are Public Pools?
Let’s dive straight into the facts:
One in Five People Admit to Peeing in the Pool
![How many people actually pee in the pool? The percentage may shock you.](https://www.poolmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/peeing-in-the-pool-1024x576.jpg)
According to a 2019 survey conducted by the Water Quality & Health Council (WQHC), a staggering 40% of Americans confessed to having relieved themselves while swimming in a pool, and yes, that includes adults. However, the issue extends beyond the realm of mere grossness. Officials warn that when urine mixes with chlorine, it depletes the germ-fighting properties of the chemical, leaving the water more vulnerable to other bacteria.
In an equally unpleasant revelation, the survey discovered that 24% of Americans admitted to swimming in a public pool within one hour of experiencing diarrhea. Need we say more?
More Than Half of People Use the Pool as a Communal Bathtub
![Good hygiene starts with showering before using the pool, something most don't do.](https://www.poolmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/bathing-in-pool-1024x576.jpg)
If urination alone didn’t contribute enough unnecessary germs to the pool water, most Americans confessed to skipping a shower before taking a dip. Some even confessed to using the pool as a means to “rinse off” after yard work or exercise.
In a revealing 2012 report by the Water Quality and Health Council, an alarming statistic emerged: nearly 70 percent of individuals neglect to shower before immersing themselves in the pool, thereby contributing to the proliferation of germs within the water.
Chlorine Isn’t the Culprit Behind Red Eyes
![Chlorine isn't really what causes red eyes at the pool, it's something else.](https://www.poolmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/bloodshot-eyes-1024x576.jpg)
If you’ve been blaming chlorine for the stinging sensation in your eyes, think again. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reveals that the true culprits are the various substances found in the water, including urine, fecal matter, sweat, dirt, skin cells, and personal care products like deodorant, makeup, and lotion. When chlorine reacts with these substances, it creates “chloramines,” which are responsible for those bloodshot eyes.
Furthermore, the strong smell of chlorine around a pool is not an indication of cleanliness; rather, it suggests the presence of chloramines. So, paradoxically, the less you smell, the cleaner the water.
Only 21% Regularly Test Pool Water
![Most people will not bother to check the chlorine level when visiting a public pool.](https://www.poolmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/only-21-percent-test-pool-water-1024x576.jpg)
While you most will routinely check the chlorine levels in their own private pool at home, only one in five people claim to regularly check chlorine levels and pH in public pools.
There’s Probably Poop In The Water
![Swim diapers are a major contributing factor for fecal matter in public pools.](https://www.poolmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/poop-in-pool-1024x576.jpg)
In a recent eye-opening report, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed a distressing reality: a staggering 1 in 8 public pools, hot tubs, and water playgrounds were forced to shut down due to severe health and safety violations. These violations included the presence of excessively dirty water that posed significant risks to swimmers.
The primary culprit behind such contamination? Fecal matter. Alarming as it may sound, the report highlights that fecal matter is often introduced into the water through children or individuals who swim despite suffering from diarrhea.
According to the CDC report, contamination can occur through direct release of formed or diarrheal feces. Shockingly, even the innocent act of water contact can lead to up to 10 grams of fecal material rinsing off a young child’s perianal surface and finding its way into the pool water.
The authors of the report also emphasize a crucial fact: swim diapers, though widely used and believed to offer protection, do not provide foolproof prevention against feces, urine, or infectious pathogens from entering and contaminating the water.
Chlorine Doesn’t Kill All Germs
![Contrary to popular opinion, chlorine doesn't kill all germs.](https://www.poolmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/germs-in-water-1024x576.jpg)
In the ongoing quest to maintain clean and safe pool water, chlorine stands as a trusted ally, capable of eradicating harmful germs that may lead to illness if consumed. However, it’s important to recognize that chlorine’s germ-fighting abilities require time to take effect.
This potent chemical has the power to eliminate the majority of germs within a matter of minutes. Nevertheless, there are certain stubborn culprits, such as Cryptosporidium, fondly known as “Crypto,” which can persist in properly treated pool water for several days.
Crypto, a microscopic parasite, poses a unique challenge due to its ability to form a protective outer shell, making it resilient to chlorine’s immediate effects. While chlorine plays a vital role in neutralizing various pathogens, Crypto’s endurance highlights the importance of comprehensive pool maintenance protocols beyond solely relying on chlorine as a disinfectant.
How to Protect Yourself at Public Pools
![One way to protect you and your family at public pools, practice good hygiene.](https://www.poolmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/public-pool-safety-1024x576.jpg)
Armed with these unsettling facts, it’s crucial to approach public pools with caution and take proactive measures to protect your health and well-being. Here are some tips to ensure a safer swimming experience:
- Practice Good Personal Hygiene: Always shower thoroughly with soap and water before entering the pool to minimize the introduction of contaminants.
- Don’t Contribute to the Problem: Avoid swimming if you or your children are suffering from gastrointestinal illnesses, and encourage proper bathroom usage.
- Be Informed: Check for up-to-date inspection reports of public pools and inquire about water quality testing protocols implemented by the facility.
- Protect Yourself: Consider using waterproof bandages or swim diapers for young children to minimize the risk of accidents and fecal contamination.
- Take Responsibility: If you witness unsanitary conditions or suspect inadequate pool maintenance, notify pool staff or local health authorities to address the issue promptly.
While public pools can offer an enjoyable summer respite, it’s vital to be aware of the potential risks they pose. By staying informed and exercising caution, you can make smart decisions about your swimming activities and take steps to mitigate the risks.
Remember, the cleanliness and safety of public pools are a shared responsibility. Pool operators must prioritize regular maintenance, thorough water testing, and enforcement of hygiene protocols to ensure a healthier swimming environment. However, as a swimmer, you also play a vital role in safeguarding your well-being. By adopting good personal hygiene practices, such as showering before entering the pool and refraining from swimming while ill, you can minimize the introduction of contaminants into the water which will contribute to a safer swimming experience for everyone.
Pool News
French Diver Makes Splash After Flop At Opening of Olympic Pool
![French Diver Makes Splash After Flop At Opening of Olympic Pool](https://www.poolmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/french-diver-flops-at-olympics-pool.jpg)
French Olympic diver, Alexis Jandard, created a memorable moment at the grand opening of Paris’s new Olympic pool, though not quite in the manner he had envisioned.
A startling video captured during the inauguration of the state-of-the-art Paris Aquatics Center on Thursday showcased the 26-year-old Olympian’s unfortunate landing on his right foot while gearing up to dive alongside two fellow athletes. Adorned in a Speedo reflecting the hues of the French flag, Jandard’s discomforting descent saw him landing on his back, ricocheting off the nearly 10-foot-high dive board, and somersaulting into the pool in a rather ungraceful manner.
The incident unfolded in front of a sizable crowd of onlookers, including French President Emmanuel Macron and various dignitaries. Jandard later displayed his scraped back on his Instagram account, maintaining a light-hearted approach to his embarrassing mishap by quipping, “For your information, my back is fine, but my ego…”
Sharing a photo of his reddened back, courtesy of the encounter with the diving board, on Instagram Stories, Jandard assured followers of his well-being. Speaking to RMC Sport, he recounted the unexpected turn of events, stating, “I’m fine. I didn’t hurt myself; unfortunately, these things happen. It happened at a time when I wasn’t expecting it at all.”
![Alexis Jandard injured his back at the inauguration of the new Olympic Pool in Paris. Photo Credit: @alexis_jandard - Instagram](https://www.poolmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/alexis-jandard-back-1024x576.jpg)
Reflecting on the incident, Jandard humorously noted, “I’ve broken boards before, but the board had never broken me before. Now it has.” Despite the hiccup, he maintained an optimistic outlook, remarking, “I would have preferred this ceremony to have gone well from A to Z. There was that little hitch. If it made people smile a little, so much the better.”
Explaining the mishap, Jandard clarified that his leg gave way upon landing but denied any slippage, emphasizing, “It’s a non-slip [board], and what’s more, the board was new, beautiful, and I think there’s still [some of] my back on the board there.”
With a silver and bronze under his belt at the 2022 and 2023 World Aquatics Championships, respectively, Jandard took the incident in stride, admitting, “It’s a shame, but it’s funny. When you take a step back, it’s funny.”
Looking ahead to the 2024 Paris Games this summer, where he is set to compete, Jandard acknowledged the inevitability of such occurrences in his sport, jesting, “These things happen,” while playfully lamenting, “It had to happen in front of the president and the whole of France. I think we chose the right moment.”
Despite being inundated with supportive messages and playful jabs, Jandard maintained a good-natured stance, urging his followers on Instagram, “Enjoy yourselves, make fun of me. I seriously deserve it!”
Pool News
Earthquake in Taiwan Causes Waterfall From Rooftop Pool
A massive earthquake in Taiwan transforms a rooftop pool into a waterfall. View viral footage.
![Earthquake in Taiwan Causes Waterfall From Rooftop Pool](https://www.poolmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/taiwan-earthquake-pool.jpg)
In a harrowing turn of events, Taiwan was struck by a powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake, leaving devastation in its wake. The quake, the strongest to hit the island in 25 years, shook the east coast of Taiwan, particularly affecting the city of Hualien and its surrounding areas. With a depth of 34.8 kilometers, the epicenter of the earthquake was located 18 kilometers south of Hualien, according to the US Geological Survey.
As rescue efforts are underway to free those trapped under rubble and debris, the toll of the disaster continues to rise. At least nine individuals have lost their lives, while over 900 others have sustained injuries. The aftermath of the earthquake has left over 100 buildings damaged, with reports of landslides and collapsed structures adding to the chaos.
The force of the quake was so immense that it caused a surreal sight—a rooftop swimming pool overflowing and cascading down the side of a building, creating an impromptu waterfall. Footage captured during the earthquake also shows the sheer force as a man inside a pool struggles to maintain balance, the water swaying violently from side to side.
The region of Hualien County, with a population of approximately 300,000, faces immense challenges in assessing the full extent of the damage. Many inhabitants reside in remote coastal or mountain communities, making it difficult for rescue teams to reach them promptly. The precarious situation is exacerbated by the expectation of aftershocks, with 29 aftershocks greater than a magnitude of 4.0 already recorded near the epicenter.
Compounding the crisis are reports of miners trapped in two mines in Hualien, adding urgency to the rescue operations. Furthermore, over 91,000 households are grappling with power cuts, amplifying the difficulties faced by residents in the aftermath of the disaster.
Despite the widespread destruction, medical facilities in Taiwan’s capital, Taipei City, are functioning, albeit damaged. The Municipal Government has confirmed that hospitals are operating normally, providing critical care to the injured.
The international community has responded swiftly to the catastrophe, with the Biden administration monitoring the situation closely and expressing readiness to offer assistance. In the face of adversity, Taiwan is rallying its resources and resilience, demonstrating solidarity and resolve in confronting this natural disaster.
As the dust settles and the extent of the damage becomes clearer, questions arise about the effectiveness of early warning detection systems in mitigating the impact of natural disasters. Despite Taiwan’s investment in advanced seismic technology, including early warning systems designed to provide crucial seconds of alert before an earthquake strikes, many residents were caught off guard by the sudden and violent tremors. Reports indicate that the early warning detection system, while operational, did not reach a significant portion of the population in time to take preventive action
Pool News
Patent Pending Apple Watch SOS Feature Could Prevent Drownings
![Patent Pending Apple Watch SOS Feature Could Prevent Drownings](https://www.poolmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/apple-watch-sos-drowning-prevention.jpg)
A forthcoming feature potentially destined for the Apple Watch, as detailed in a recent patent application, could serve as a lifesaver for swimmers at risk of drowning.
Outlined in the patent is a capability for the Watch to identify “irregular behavior” and automatically trigger a distress call for assistance.
Apple underscores the alarming statistics surrounding drowning, particularly its prevalence among children, as a leading cause of accidental fatalities.
In the United States alone, drowning claims the lives of over 3,500 individuals annually, ranking as the fifth most common form of accidental death. Tragically, a significant portion of these victims are children.
Emphasizing the critical importance of swift intervention during water emergencies, Apple highlights the dire consequences of prolonged submersion without resuscitation, which can result in brain damage and ultimately, drowning.
A Growing Need For Cost-Effective Wearable Solutions
While acknowledging existing underwater camera systems in some swimming pools aimed at detecting distressed swimmers and alerting lifeguards, Apple notes their costliness and unreliability.
Consequently, there’s a pressing need for a simpler, more cost-effective drowning prevention solution suitable for all types of water bodies, including public and private pools, as well as natural settings like lakes and ponds where installing underwater cameras is impractical.
The patent proposes leveraging wearable devices such as the Apple Watch for broader applicability, increased reliability, and the ability to detect various types of emergencies.
Alerting When Swimmers Are In Distress
For instance, if the Watch detects a wearer who is not proficient in swimming entering deeper water, it can promptly dispatch an alert instead of waiting for signs of distress.
These alerts can be transmitted to nearby devices, including those of friends and family, and seamlessly integrate with existing drowning detection and alarm systems to ensure lifeguards are promptly notified.
Apple Watches already boast capabilities to detect and respond to falls, vehicle accidents, and cardiac irregularities. Heartwarming testimonials featured in Apple’s “Dear Apple” video series show individuals whose lives were saved by these functionalities.
As with many patents from Apple, it’s important to note that not all concepts may materialize into actual products. Nonetheless, this innovation stands as a promising addition for potential integration into future watchOS updates.
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