Having formerly been a lifeguard and supervisor of a recreational city swimming pool, I can assure you that there are more than five reasons to avoid them at all costs! If in need of some chlorinated water, search for an exclusively lap swimming pool or try the saltwater of the ocean.
The obvious number one, but not-so-obvious phenomena would be the bodily excretions including feces, vomit, and urine that plague recreational swimming pools daily. The unofficial protocalls at my former pool and those of my friends include removing all swimmers from the pool, netting out any obvious and reachable chunks, and allowing everyone to return to the pool. No amount of chlorine leaves me comfortable with
Recreational swimming pool staffs are usually comprised of high school kids who are naturally immature and irresponsible. Lifeguard staffs often look for easy ways out and forget to do things - even when related to sanitary issues. Also, many pool lifeguards are both academically and emotionally unprepared for lifesaving duties.
Public swimming pools tend to attract a young crowd, and are sometimes referred to as cheap babysitters for children whose parents work during the summer. These kids are often wild, unruly, and all-around annoying.
The moist, warm pool environment is a haven for germs. Locker rooms house fungi leaving the often bare feet especially vulnerable. Even worse is the thought of germs associated with bodily excretions released into the pool water.
While chlorine is welcomed compared to the alternative of swimming in untreated pool water, it has potential consequences. Excessive chlorine exposure can alter the color of clothing and hair. It has also been known to spark skin breakouts. More obvious, swallowing chlorinated water can make someone sick too.
When the entire lifeguard staff refuses to get in the pool unless absolutely necessary, it is amazing how many clueless patrons enjoy swimming in filth day after day. Exclusively lap swimming pools are a much better option, however.
LOL! I totally agree. I also am squeamish about the thought of swimming in ponds ... where squirmy snaky things might also be swimming ... when I win the lottery I will (maybe) have my own salt water pool! Super list, very creative, high five!
select one here...