The
Recreational Health Program is the primary program for ensuring the proper operation
and maintenance of public swimming pools and spas. "Public" pools and
spas are municipal bathing facilities as well as those at motels, apartment complexes
and mobile home parks.
The main goals of this program
are to prevent drownings and injuries at public swimming pools and spas and illnesses
related to their use as well as to ensure that they are safe, clean, and healthful.
We also seek to increase knowledge of pool operation and maintenance principles
among managers and employees of facilities operating public pools and spas as
well as among commercial pool service companies and owners of private pools.
Poorly
operated swimming pools and spas may transmit infectious diseases and skin disorders,
including eye, ear, nose and throat infections. Needless tragic deaths from drowning
may be prevented if all pool are equipped with a lifeguard or the proper safety
equipment.
We carry out a regular inspection program
of our inventory of over 110 public pools and spas during the months that they
are open. The inspection consists of an evaluation of water quality and recirculation
equipment, and a verification that required safety equipment, signs, fences and
gates are provided and maintained. In addition, we provide training for interested
pool operators and managers.
