Boise's "Boost": City Baths Burning Baby D?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe shimmering waters of “The Boost” in Boise beckon, promising relaxation and rejuvenation. But beneath the surface of this urban oasis, a critical question bubbles: is the water truly safe, especially for the most vulnerable among us? We need to dive deep, beyond the marketing hype, and examine the potential health risks lurking within those inviting pools.
Boise’s “Boost” city baths, like many public pools, likely use chlorine or bromine to disinfect the water. This is standard practice to kill harmful bacteria and viruses. However, these disinfectants can react with organic matter (sweat, skin cells, urine – yes, it happens) to form disinfection byproducts (DBPs).
One particularly concerning DBP is bromate. Bromate forms when ozone, sometimes used as a secondary disinfectant, reacts with bromide in the water. While ozone is effective at killing pathogens, this reaction can create a potential carcinogen.
The EPA sets limits for bromate in drinking water, but recreational water standards are often less stringent. This is a critical point. We ingest far less water drinking than we potentially absorb through our skin and inhale as vapor while swimming or soaking.
So, what can Boise residents do to assess their risk at "The Boost"? First, contact the Boise Parks and Recreation Department. Ask specifically about their disinfection methods. Do they use ozone? If so, how do they monitor and control bromate levels? Demand transparency.
If they use ozone, request data on recent bromate testing. The EPA’s maximum contaminant level (MCL) for bromate in drinking water is 10 parts per billion (ppb). While there isn’t a specific legal limit for recreational water, this provides a reasonable benchmark.
If the city is unwilling to provide this information, that’s a red flag. Consider filing a public records request. Transparency is crucial for public health.
Next, consider your personal risk factors. Infants and young children are particularly vulnerable. Their skin is more permeable, and they tend to swallow more water.
Babies and Bromates: The developing bodies of infants are more susceptible to the harmful effects of chemicals. Bromate exposure, even at low levels, could potentially disrupt their development.
Children and Chlorine: Young children are also more prone to skin irritation and respiratory problems from chlorine and other DBPs.
If you have infants or young children, consider limiting their time in the “Boost” pools. Ensure they don’t swallow the water. Rinse them thoroughly after their swim.
Pregnant women should also exercise caution. Some studies suggest a link between DBP exposure and adverse pregnancy outcomes. While the evidence is not conclusive, it’s better to err on the side of caution.
Another challenge is the lack of readily available information. The city might claim the water is “safe,” but what does that really mean? Safe according to what standards? With what frequency of testing?
Here’s a practical step: purchase a home water testing kit that includes bromate testing. While these kits may not be as accurate as a lab analysis, they can provide a general indication of bromate levels. Test the water at “The Boost” yourself.
If you detect elevated levels of bromate, report it to the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality. Citizen science can play a vital role in protecting public health.
Another potential pitfall is relying solely on the city’s assurances. Government agencies are not always proactive in addressing potential health risks. They may prioritize cost-effectiveness over public safety.
Consider the Flint, Michigan water crisis. Residents were assured their water was safe, even as it was poisoning them with lead. Don’t blindly trust authority. Do your own research.
Furthermore, be aware of the “halo effect.” The perception that something is healthy simply because it’s associated with wellness. Just because “The Boost” promotes relaxation doesn’t automatically make it safe.
Here’s a real-world scenario: imagine a family visiting “The Boost” on a hot summer day. They spend several hours soaking in the pools, unaware of the potential risks. The children swallow water, and the parents inhale the vapor. They leave feeling refreshed, but potentially exposed to harmful DBPs.
This scenario is entirely plausible. It highlights the need for greater awareness and transparency.
To mitigate your risk, consider these actionable steps:
Shower before entering the pool: This reduces the amount of organic matter that reacts with disinfectants.
Limit your time in the pool: The longer you’re exposed, the greater the risk.
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps your body flush out toxins.
Rinse off thoroughly after swimming: This removes residual chemicals from your skin.
Advocate for better water quality monitoring: Contact your local officials and demand greater transparency.
The city of Boise should invest in advanced water treatment technologies that minimize DBP formation. This could include using UV disinfection or membrane filtration. These technologies are more expensive, but they offer superior protection.
Another common mistake is assuming that all pools are created equal. Private pools may have different disinfection methods and water quality standards than public pools. Don’t assume that because your neighbor’s pool is safe, “The Boost” is also safe.
Finally, remember that the risks are not always obvious. You may not experience immediate symptoms from DBP exposure. The long-term health effects can take years to manifest.
Therefore, it’s crucial to be proactive and informed. Don’t wait for a health crisis to take action. Demand transparency, do your own research, and protect yourself and your family. The shimmering waters of “The Boost” can be enjoyed safely, but only with vigilance and informed decision-making.