Shower Before Getting In The Pool

You change into your bathing suit and jump in the refreshing cool pool waters. But did you forget one important step?

That step you missed might be getting yourself or other people sick, something a simple shower can help with.

Interestingly, most of us take a shower after swimming, but according to a national poll conducted by the University of Michigan, not many of us shower before getting into the water, and the same goes for our kids. Only 26% of parents surveyed felt it was important to shower "before" getting themselves or their kids into the water. But at the same time 64% of those same parents thought it was very important for their children not to swallow pool water to avoid getting sick.

But showering before you get into the pool can help cut down on what's known as recreational water illnesses. Bacteria from our bodies, especially those of young children can get into the water. Although most disinfectants used nowadays do a good job getting rid of what might make you or your kids sick, there are a couple of bugs that chlorine can't kill, cryptosporidium for one. This comes from fecal matter, usually because of dirty diapers.

So, one key to keeping yourself and everyone else swimming healthy is to shower off before getting into the pool. And the key word is to shower off, not just rinse off. Use soap and water and for diaper wearing or young children you need to make sure the diaper area is well washed. While in the pool check children frequently to see if they need to use the restroom. Simple steps that can help keep us all enjoying a cool dip on a hot day.