|
 Now
that summer is just round the corner, young and old alike will make a beeline for the pools and water bodies. How many of you are really aware of the health aspects associated with pools and water bodies? Generally all swimming pools are routinely monitored and made safe for their users by use of chlorine and other chemicals. You can easily pick up a variety of infections from the swimming pools. Though at times, it may really not be evident.
 At times many a swimmer doesn't hesitate to use the pool as a bathroom. This introduces harmful germs into the pool water. In case you are sick, don't use a pool. This way you not only help yourself but also help others. Certain germs - Cryptosporidium and E.coli - can cause stomach aches,
diarrhoea, and for some children, even death.
There are several little steps that you can take to remain healthy in the pools:
Before you get down into the pool ensure that it is clean and transparent and there is no build up of debris on the surface of the water.
Ensure that you don't use the swimming pool after taking alcohol or eating a heavy meal.
If you are a poor or inexperienced swimmer, keep within your depth area and don't dive in insufficient depth of water.
The swimming pools are disinfected using chlorine bleach. This contains about 10 percent sodium hypochlorite. The amount used to disinfect the water depends on pool size, water temperature, and number of swimmers.
It is also very important that we don't intake or drink the swimming pool water. In case it fills your mouth, and this can happen more often than not, don't swallow it.
It is a good idea to take a shower before you enter the swimming pool. This way you can reduce the possibility of introducing any infection into the pool.
Besides dry body and hair tend to absorb more water and what's in it, than a moist and wet body.
Those with long hair should use swimming caps and it is advisable that you swim in proper costume.
It is equally important to take a shower after a swim. The soap and water will wash off any irritating chemicals and also get rid of any micro-organisms that may cause trouble.
Do not indulge in unruly behaviour either outside or inside the pool. Don't try to outdo others in the pool. In case there is an emergency or life-threatening situation follow the instructions of those in charge of the pool.
Published on
17th Oct. 2002
Previous
Articles
|
