Keeping your pool safe from COVID-19

Vacation plans may be on hold this summer, which means there’s potential for higher use of swimming pools. According to the CDC there is no evidence that COVID-19 can be spread to humans through the use of swimming pools. Proper operation and maintenance (including disinfection with chlorine or bromine) of pools should remove or inactivate the virus that causes COVID-19. Chlorinated pool water is fatal for the miserable microbe.

The average amount of chlorine in a pool is enough to inactivate the virus. The key is to keep the chlorine level within the recommended range of 1 ppm to 3 ppm. It is not necessary to go any higher as it can cause eye and skin irritation. Also, increasing the chlorine concentration won’t have any additional effects on the virus. The CDC guidelines for swimming pools are specific to those sanitized with chlorine or bromine, however, the same logic doesn’t hold for saltwater or freshwater.

Although risk of infection is thought to be lower outside, there’s always risk associated with recreation or gatherings, especially if proper precautions aren’t taken. It is still important to routinely disinfect frequently touched surfaces. These surfaces include but are not limited to ladder handles, water slides, lounge and deck chairs, tabletops and pool toys.

Research shows the virus can survive for up to 72 hours on plastic and stainless steel surfaces. Anything not disinfected should be kept separate. Towels should also be washed frequently in warm temperature water and allowed to dry completely between uses. Pool equipment that touches the face (goggles and snorkels) is difficult to clean and should not be shared, even among individuals of the same household.

While there is ongoing community spread of the virus that causes COVID-19, it is important for individuals as well as pool owners to take steps to ensure health and safety of anyone swimming. The CDC suggests the use of face coverings where feasible, i.e. areas around the pool. Social distancing (remaining at least six feet apart) should be practiced, except in the event of an emergency to rescue a swimmer in distress. Anyone swimming is encouraged to wash their hands frequently and to cover coughs and sneezes. Individuals that are sick or vulnerable to infections should stay home.

-Information courtesy of i2M, www.i2M.us.com

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