MN Dept. of Health Warning Us Not To Pee in the Pool This Summer

This should be common sense by now, but apparently it's a big enough issue where the Minnesota Department of Health sees a need to get involved.

They posted on their Facebook page explaining why we shouldn't pee in the pool this summer. Other than the top reason being that it is disgusting, when chlorine mixes with urine, it creates chemicals that make your eyes red and itchy.

They also posted this message along with their graphic:

‪A healthy pool doesn’t smell. A pool with a strong chemical smell might have a lot of pee, poop and sweat in it. It’s not chlorine you smell!

Along with the Facebook post, they also linked back to a page on their website detailing the prevention of Recreational Water Illnesses (RWIs).

To help protect yourself and other swimmers from RWIs:

• Stay out of the water if you have diarrhea
• Don't swallow the water
• Shower before and after swimming
• Don't pee in the pool

Tips for parents and people supervising young children:

• Take children on frequent bathroom breaks when swimming – waiting to hear “I have to go” may mean that it's already too late!
• Change diapers in changing rooms, not poolside. Wash your hands and the child’s hands after changing diapers.
• Wash swimsuits after getting out of the water

You can read more of that article here. Have a safe summer!