UAE | Health

Stay aware of swimming pool hazards

Swimming pools present a number of hazards and according to the World Health Organisation, they include not only drowning and near-drowning experiences but also major impact injuries such as spinal injury and cuts, lesions and punctures.

  • By Alice Johnson, Staff Reporter
  • Published: 23:40 July 4, 2008
  • Gulf News

  • Lifeguards are an integral part of swimming pools and many hotels have a strict set of regulations for the guards.
  • Image Credit: Gulf News Archive

Dubai: Swimming pools present a number of hazards and according to the World Health Organisation, they include not only drowning and near-drowning experiences but also major impact injuries such as spinal injury and cuts, lesions and punctures.

There are also dangers that arise from pathogenic bacteria that may be in the water as a result of faecal contamination and adverse effects relating to chemicals, with exposure coming from inhaling chemicals used in cleaning the water and skin exposure to chemicals.

Many swimming pools display safety signs, indicating the dangers.

These include diving into the shallow end of the swimming pool and running or rushing on wet areas around the pool.

Dubai-based swimming coach Seth Chappels said adults learning to swim should be first stable in the water before attempting to swim. "Adults need to have a core stability in the water, because if they get out of their depth it's hard to regain a footing and stand up again. If you have this core stability, then swimming is a lot easier," he said.

WHO measures for pool safety include teaching not to swim beyond an individual's skill level, parental supervision of children, diving under suitable conditions, and providing education and public awareness about the hazards of swimming.

Lifeguards are an integral part of swimming pool safety. At Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort in Fujairah, which recently held the UAE Lifeguard Championships, lifeguards should hold the Royal Life Saving Society certificate or equivalent qualification from their home country.

Bojan Kalodjera, recreation manager at the hotel, said: "There are several criteria for us to take into consideration. The first and foremost test is to be able to swim 400m freestyle in less than eight minutes. Lifeguards should have a theoretical knowledge of first aid for cases of drowning, heart attacks, bleeding, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, choking and epilepsy. We have a strict set of regulations for lifeguards, which is reviewed regularly."

Skin sensitivity

The skin can also become affected by chlorine - the chemical used to keep water clean. Skin reactions can include rashes or an itching sensation.

Dr Ikramullah Al Nasir, specialist dermatologist and medical director, Dermacare Skin Centre, said: "People who are prone to skin reactions should shower immediately after coming out of the pool." A water-resistant, high factor suncream should be used, and applied at least every hour if swimming.

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