Why does keeping pool water clean matter?

Hi, I'm Coach Jamie, a swim instructor.

Why does keeping pool water clean matter?

Keeping pool water clean is a shared effort because all swimmers use the same water. Germs can sometimes enter the pool, and diarrhea is the most common illness linked to swimming water. Swallowing even a small amount of contaminated water can make someone sick. Disinfectants kill most germs, but they do not work instantly, and some tough germs can survive for a time.

Rinsing your body in the shower before getting into the pool is an important step. This quick rinse helps remove dirt, sweat, and body oils that can use up the pool's germ-killing chemicals. When these substances get in the water, they leave less chlorine available to kill germs that can cause illness. For this reason, anyone who currently has diarrhea should stay completely out of the water.

One of the most important habits for all swimmers is to avoid swallowing the pool water. It is a good idea to have clean drinking water available so no one is tempted to drink from the pool when thirsty.

Even without an accident, germs can enter the water from tiny amounts of poop that rinse off a swimmer's body.

Listen to this explanation away from the water. An adult who is actively supervising swimmers must not be distracted by this audio or a phone. This general information does not replace qualified instruction, supervision, or safety training.

Call the swim school if you have questions about your visit or your lessons. This is general information, not personal instructions. The team at the swim school can answer questions about your specific situation.

Thanks for watching.