Pools, waterparks, hot tubs/spas, and water playgrounds are great places to have fun, be active, or just relax. This year during the National Healthy and Safe Swimming Week (May 21-27), the Lincoln County Health Department wants to remind everyone to be safe this summer wherever they swim.
A few of the main reasons pools in Lincoln County shut down is due to contamination in the water or incorrect levels of chemicals. Germs like Crypto (short for Cryptosporidium) are extra hard to stop, because the germ is not easily killed by chlorine or other chemicals. That’s why it’s so important not to swim or let your kids swim if sick with diarrhea or vomiting. Just one incident in the water can release millions of germs. If someone swallows a mouthful of the water, it can cause diarrhea lasting up to three weeks.
We all share the water we swim in; swimmers can take steps to protect themselves and others from getting sick or hurt swimming this summer.
Healthy and Safe Swimming Tips:
•Stay out of the water if you have diarrhea or vomiting.
•Shower before you get in the water.
•Don’t swallow the water.
•Every hour—everyone out!
•Take kids on bathroom breaks.
•Check diapers, and change them in a bathroom or diaper-changing area – not poolside – to keep germs away from the pool.
•Reapply sunscreen.
•Drink plenty of fluids.
•Check out the latest inspection report.
For more information about Lincoln County Health Department’s programs and services, visit lincolncountyhealthdepartment.com or find us on Facebook. Lincoln County Health Department is always working for a safer and healthier Lincoln County.