Pool Safety

We know how to keep from spreading germs at the pool, but it wouldn't hurt to remind kids.

Here's your checklist for pool safety from a story we ran on WHOI:

As pools prepare to open this memorial day weekend, the Illinois Department of Public Health, wants to warn you that water may not be the only thing you're swimming in. Recreational water illnesses can be cause by germs like crypto, e. coli and shigella.

While most pools are treated with chlorine, some germs are resistant to the chemical. That's why the department has 6 steps they'd like us to follow to keep us from getting sick this swimming season

1. Don't swim when you have diarrhea. Germs in the water can spread and make other people sick.


2. Don't swallow pool water. Avoid getting pool water in your mouth altogether.


3. Practice good hygiene. Take showers before getting into the pool and wash your hands after using the bathroom.


4. Take your kids on frequent bathroom breaks or change diapers often.


5. Change diapers in the bathroom rather than poolside. Germs can get on surfaces and spread to the pool.


6. Wash your child thoroughly. Use soap and water before letting your child into the pool.

Other precautions, such as wearing plenty of sunscreen and not running on slick surfaces, should also be taken into consideration.

I don't think we will swim this Memorial Day. I can't handle the cold water. Although, my son has already asked if we can get the kiddy pool out. I guess that wouldn't be so bad. I am hoping to teach my four-year-old to swim this summer! It should be an action packed summer vacation. He also says he wants to learn to ride his bike without training wheels and take karate!

-NewsAnchorMom Jen