Houston Pools: Is Tap Shock Burning Youth Guts?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe chlorine smell hits you as you approach the Houston city pool, a familiar scent of summer fun. But what if that smell is also a warning sign? What if the very thing meant to keep the water safe is also causing your child’s upset stomach after a swim? It’s a question many Houston parents are starting to ask, and the answers aren’t always clear.
Chlorine is a powerful disinfectant, essential for killing harmful bacteria and viruses in swimming pools. Houston, like many cities, relies on chlorination to maintain water safety standards. However, when chlorine reacts with organic matter like sweat, urine, and even dead skin cells, it forms disinfection byproducts (DBPs). These DBPs, such as trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs), are the potential culprits behind those post-swim tummy troubles.
So, how do you know if your child’s stomach ache is just a bug or something related to the pool water? Look for these symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps, especially if they appear shortly after swimming. Some children may also experience skin or eye irritation. It’s crucial to consult a pediatrician to rule out other possible causes, but keep the pool water in mind as a potential factor.
Accessing water quality reports for Houston pools can be tricky. Public pools are generally required to maintain records of their chemical levels, but these aren’t always readily available to the public. Start by contacting the Houston Parks and Recreation Department or the specific pool operator. Ask for their most recent water quality reports, specifically looking for THM and HAA levels. Compare these levels to the EPA’s guidelines for safe drinking water, keeping in mind that pool water is ingested differently and exposure is often more concentrated.
What can you do to minimize your child’s exposure to DBPs? Here are some actionable steps:
- Shower before swimming: This reduces the amount of organic matter entering the pool, minimizing DBP formation. Encourage everyone in your family to shower thoroughly with soap and water before getting in the pool.
- Limit swim time: Shorter swims mean less exposure. Take frequent breaks outside the pool.
- Swim in well-ventilated areas: Outdoor pools are generally better than indoor pools, as the DBPs can dissipate more easily. If swimming indoors, ensure the pool area has adequate ventilation.
- Consider swim diapers: For younger children, swim diapers can help reduce the amount of fecal matter entering the pool.
- Advocate for better filtration: Encourage your local pool to invest in advanced filtration systems, such as UV or ozone systems, which can reduce the need for high chlorine levels.
Houston has a few pools experimenting with alternative sanitization methods. Some private pools are using salt water systems, which generate chlorine through electrolysis, often resulting in lower chlorine levels and fewer DBPs. Others are exploring ozone or UV systems, which disinfect the water without producing harmful byproducts. While these options are less common in public pools due to higher upfront costs, they represent a promising direction for the future.
If you’re concerned about the water quality at your local pool, consider getting it tested independently. Several companies in the Houston area offer pool water testing services. A quick online search for “pool water testing Houston” will provide you with options. These tests can provide a detailed analysis of the water’s chemical composition, including chlorine levels, pH, and DBP concentrations.
Don’t underestimate the power of local advocacy. Join or start a community group focused on improving pool water quality in Houston. Contact your city council member and voice your concerns. Demand transparency in water quality reporting and advocate for the adoption of safer sanitization methods. Collective action can make a real difference in protecting the health of our children.
One common pitfall is assuming that a strong chlorine smell means the pool is clean. In reality, that strong smell often indicates a high concentration of chloramines, a type of DBP that can cause irritation. Pools with proper chlorination and ventilation should have a faint, almost undetectable chlorine odor.
Another challenge is the lack of readily available information. Pool operators may be hesitant to share water quality reports, and it can be difficult to interpret the data even when you have it. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek clarification from pool staff or public health officials.
Remember, the goal isn’t to avoid swimming altogether. Swimming is a fantastic form of exercise and a beloved summer activity. The goal is to be informed, take precautions, and advocate for safer swimming environments for our children in Houston. By understanding the potential risks and taking proactive steps, we can ensure that our kids can enjoy the pool without the worry of getting sick.