Safety tips for swimming in pools, lakes and water parks

Going back to my beloved local water park: just how gross are these popular attractions? Ms. Hlavsa said that she would not be too worried. “Actually, I plan on taking my kids to a water park next weekend,” she told me when we spoke. Because water parks are operated by professionals, they are usually careful to follow sanitization guidelines, she said. I was also relieved to learn that in some states, including New York, the water used in splash pads, which spray water on users and are frequented by younger (ie, more germy) children, is not only treated with chlorine, but also with ultraviolet light. light, which kills chlorine-resistant microbes.

Ms. Hlavsa noted that concerned water park (or pool) visitors should also be able to access public health inspection data, just as can be done with restaurants. As for where to find these records, it depends on what state you’re in, she said. Inspections may be conducted by the county, city, or other municipality. She suggested calling her local health department for more information.

If you plan to swim in a lake, river, stream, or ocean, look for physical signs that the water is or is not safe for swimming. (Or check your state’s water quality conditions online.) This is especially important after a heavy rain, because as it flows and drains, the rain picks up everything it comes into contact with, including animal feces, and can deposit it, germs and all. , in swimming areas, Dr. Perkins said. Avoid swimming in areas that have pipes that drain too.

If you have an open wound, even a simple scratch, it’s also best to avoid swimming or wading, especially in salt water where rivers empty into the ocean, Dr. Trimmier said. At a minimum, he covers wounds with a waterproof bandage. Vibrio bacteria can enter the body through minor wounds and cause serious but rare infections.

Also test lake, river or ocean water before entering. “The general rule of thumb is, if the water looks cloudy, don’t swim in it,” Dr. Perkins said. Also don’t swim in it if it smells bad, and even if it smells good, don’t drink it.

In general, use your common sense. Dr. Perkins said that a patient once came to see him with a terrible sinus infection. “Turns out he had made a bet that he could inhale an oyster through his nose,” he said. “Do not do that”.

Source: www.nytimes.com