Coronavirus and Swimming Pools – What You Need to Know

There are so many questions still surrounding the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).  As we continue to adjust to the new normal way of living and working during these times we wanted to share information from the CDC with respect to COVID-19 and swimming pools:

The following information is direct from The CDC Website:

“There is no evidence that the virus that causes COVID-19 can be spread to people through the water in pools, hot tubs, spas, or water play areas. Proper operation and maintenance (including disinfection with chlorine and bromine) of these facilities should inactivate the virus in the water.

While there is  ongoing community spread of COVID-19 of the virus that causes COVID-19, it is important for individuals as well as owners and operators of these facilities to take steps to ensure health and safety:

• Everyone should follow local and state guidance that may determine when and how recreational water facilities may operate.
• Individuals should continue to protect themselves and others at recreational water venues both in and out of the water – for example, by practicing social distancing and good hand hygiene.
• In addition to ensuring water safety and quality, owners and operators of community pools, hot tubs, spas, and water play areas should follow the interim guidance for businesses and employers for cleaning and disinfecting their community facilities.”

It is important to note that while proper maintenance of pool chemistry is important all the time it is even more critical now, to ensure that COVID-19 stands no chance of surviving in/on the pool water.  Here are some useful tips:

• Check your pool water chemistry at least once per week (more often if you can) and balance the chemicals accordingly
• Wash all pool towels, bathing suits, etc in hot water
• Frequently sanitize pool furniture, pool floats, etc
• Frequently sanitize the handles of pool fence gates where people frequently put their hands to open/close gates
• Keep anyone who is sick out of the pool area

Following these simple steps will help ensure safe use of your pool area.  With travel plans on hold it looks like 2020 will be the summer of staycations for many families!  If you are thinking of adding a pool to your yard this summer, a fiberglass pool would be the best choice, as they only take 3-4 weeks to install.  Visit our Fiberglass Pools page to see the models available!