When summer rolls around, so do the crowds at public pools and beaches. There are a few no-risk activities during the pandemic, but that doesn’t mean you are only restricted to those. At the end of the day, where’s the fun in warm weather if you can’t take a refreshing dip in cold waters, right?

We know the coronavirus can spread via droplets in the air, but there is no current evidence that it can spread to people through pool water. However, chlorine, an additive in commercial pools, inactivates COVID-19.

Public Pool Safety

If you’re taking a fun trip to the pool, call pool management to determine if they comply with COVID-19 safety rules for aquatic venues. If they follow less strict guidelines than the CDC, you can still follow the recommended precautions to reduce the risks.

Ensure the aquatic venue you’re heading to is strictly outdoor, as virus particles can linger in the air for hours without adequate ventilation.

Make a reservation beforehand, as the number of people allowed in the water and locker rooms may be limited. To reduce your time in locker rooms and indoor areas, you can change into your swim clothing at home. This makes you ready to swim as soon as you arrive. If you have children, ensure they keep a 6-foot distance when in the pool, provided they are vaccinated. A 6-foot distance would be approximately a few inches longer than a typical pool noodle. If you’re not vaccinated, skipping the pool for now may be ideal.

You won’t wear a mask in the pool, so physical distance is critical. Bring sanitizing wipes to clean the equipment if you plan to relax in the lounge chairs. The CDC discourages eating and drinking at public pools because it requires removing your mask unless there’s a safe distance.

At a pool, the chances of getting your belongings wet in some way or another are pretty high, so bring two masks, as a damp mask is not useful. If you or your family enjoy using equipment like snorkels or goggles, it’s best to bring your own.

Sanitizing is always crucial, but mixed with sunscreen all over your hands makes the sanitizer less effective, so wipe off the sunscreen before disinfecting.

Vaccines

The best way to enjoy the summer with your family and friends while having peace of mind is by getting vaccinated. You are considered fully vaccinated two weeks after the second dose of most vaccines, such as Pfizer or Sinopharm. The only way to come closer to the end of the COVID-19 pandemic is to reach a point where it’s just as bad as a common cold; this is done by building our immunity and gaining herd immunity. This can only be done and fast-tracked if the population is vaccinated against it. While there’s still a lot to learn about the effectiveness of vaccines and the virus, it is basic knowledge that getting vaccinated is the way to go. Vaccines are currently widely available and accessible to everyone over 12. The vaccine is free, and you will not be charged.

Studies show that vaccines are effective in preventing people from contracting COVID-19 and becoming seriously ill. Currently, vaccines are available from Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson, and Sinopharm.

Post Vaccine Safety

If you’ve already been vaccinated, that’s great! You can get closer to living a normal life again. However, we are still learning how long these vaccines will protect us, so it’s ideal that you continue taking precautions, such as wearing a mask in indoor public places and avoiding large gatherings.

The risk levels of participating in any social activity depend on the safety measures you adhere to, even after vaccination. So be mindful of yourself and your family, and have fun!

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