Pool Tips: Stay Safe and Healthy While You Swim

Summer means more time by the pool, but a few simple habits can make your dip both fun and safe. Below are quick, no‑nonsense tips that keep the water clean, protect your skin, and lower the chance of getting sick.

Keep the Water Clean

First off, good water quality is the foundation of any safe swim. Test the chlorine level regularly – the ideal range is 1 to 3 ppm. If it’s too low, bacteria can grow; too high and you’ll get itchy eyes. Use a cheap test strip or a digital meter, and adjust the chlorine dose according to the manufacturer’s guide.

Don’t forget to balance the pH. Aim for a pH between 7.2 and 7.6. This range lets chlorine work best and prevents skin irritation. A couple of drops of pH‑up or pH‑down solution can fix the numbers in minutes.

Keep the filter running long enough each day – roughly one‑fourth of the total pool volume per hour is a good rule. A well‑maintained filter removes debris, algae spores, and microbes before they become a problem.

Protect Your Skin and Health

Before you jump in, rinse off with a quick shower. Removing sweat, sunscreen, and body oils reduces the load of contaminants that can react with chlorine and create that familiar “pool smell.”

If you have open cuts or sensitive skin, cover them with a waterproof bandage. Chlorine can sting and slow healing. For anyone with eczema or dermatitis, a barrier cream applied before swimming can help keep irritation at bay.

Stay hydrated. Swimming in warm water can make you feel less thirsty, but dehydration still happens. Keep a water bottle nearby and sip regularly.

Watch out for water‑borne illnesses like Giardia or Legionella. If the pool looks cloudy, has a strong chemical odor, or you notice many swimmers coughing, step out and report the issue to the pool manager. These signs often mean the disinfection system needs a check.

Finally, protect your eyes and ears. Wear swim goggles to avoid chlorine‑burned eyes, and consider ear plugs if you’re prone to swimmer’s ear. A simple ear‑drying drop after each swim can keep infections away.

By following these pool tips, you’ll enjoy cleaner water, fewer skin complaints, and a lower risk of getting sick. So grab your swimsuit, apply the basics, and make every swim a safe, healthy splash.