The CDC Released Guidelines For Swimming In Public Pools This Summer. Here’s What We Know.
Summer is basically here and with social distancing and quarantine happening around us, it’s hard to not wonder how Summer activities could be affected.
Recently, the CDC has released guidelines individuals should follow if they choose to swim in a public pool this Summer.
Here are some of the suggested guidelines the CDC has recommended as of now.
Starting with face masks, the CDC suggests that individuals should wear their face masks until they have entered the pool.
“Face coverings are most essential in times when physical distancing is difficult.”
CDC
Social Distancing must be practiced inside and outside of the pool. Seating arrangements surrounding the pool should also be 6 feet apart.
The only exception where social distancing can be broken is in the event of an emergency to rescue, administer first aid or to perform CPR to a swimmer that is in distress, according to the CDC.
The CDC also wants to remind everyone to cover when they cough or sneeze and to make sure individuals are keeping up with washing their hands.
Frequently touched surfaces should be cleaned and sanitized often. The CDC has listed a few examples of surfaces that should be cleaned regularly:
- Handrails, slides, and structures for climbing or playing
- Lounge chairs, tabletops, pool noodles, and kickboards
- Door handles and surfaces of restrooms, handwashing stations, diaper-changing stations, and showers
Public pools that also offer towels to guests should be washing their towels in warm water and allowing them to dry completely before handing them out to the next customer.
Sharing any swimming gear such as googles or food with other individuals is also discouraged, according to the CDC.
Be prepared to see signs and to hear regular broadcast announcements on how to stop the spread at your local public pool.
Even while following the suggested guidelines above, an individual can still become sick with the Coronavirus and pool operators should have a plan ready to isolate that individual and to transport them to a healthcare provider.
The CDC suggests at least one person to be designated as the COVID-19 point of contact to help with all virus related concerns.
Local health authorities should be notified immediately for individuals who came into contact with the infected person.
Lastly, individuals who tested positive or people who were around anyone with the disease in the last 2 weeks, should not enter any public pool until after the 14 day isolation is completed.
Keep in mind, that the CDC has also stated,
“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.”
CDC
You can read the entire suggested guidelines from the CDC here.
