What To Do When Someone Poops In The Pool
Did that title make you giggle?
We know. It sounds like a silly subject. But, if you own a backyard pool for long enough, eventually somebody is going to poop in it.
Trust us.
When it’s your turn to deal with this awkward and potentially embarrassing dilemma, you’ll want to go into the situation prepared. Don’t wait until the poop-apocalypse to sort out your strategy!
Instead, read on to learn exactly what to do when someone poops in the pool.
What to Do When Someone Poops in the Pool
First and foremost, don’t panic! Calmly get everybody out of the water, put on some disposable gloves, and get ready to pick up some poop.
Then, follow the CDC’s suggested steps for cleanup. This will help protect your health while you’re dealing with human waste. And, it will help guarantee a job well done, making the pool safe for re-entry as quickly as possible.
You’ll want to use a bucket or other container to remove the poop from your pool. Avoid using loose nets, which can further disperse the accident.
Using your pool’s vacuum is completely out of the question, as doing so could contaminate elements of your filtration system, making a far bigger mess than what you started with.
Once the poop has been removed, you’ll want to chemically treat your pool’s water to stop the spread of potentially dangerous germs and bacteria.
To accomplish this, you’ll need to raise the water’s free chlorine concentration to 2 parts per million (ppm) – and maintain the pH at 7.5 or less for at least 30 minutes.
Does a Pool Need to Be Drained if Someone Poops?
In most cases, no. But, for example, in a smaller area like a plunge pool, it might be necessary. This could also be true if someone has diarrhea.
Further cleaning steps may be required in extreme situations. So, if you’re dealing with highly dispersed poop and a lot of it, it’s time to call in a pool maintenance expert to help.
How Long After There Is Poop in Pool Can You Swim?
In most cases, it will be safe to swim shortly after you’ve completed the chemical treatment. But, it’s important to test your water before anybody gets back in. Chlorine levels that are too high can cause skin irritation and respiratory stress.
Can You Get Sick From Poop in the Pool?
If it isn’t properly cleaned up, absolutely! That’s why it’s so important to get everybody out of the water and treat your pool as quickly as possible.
Proper cleaning and preventing the spread of illness also requires that all of your pool equipment is functioning properly.
Why Do Kids Poop in the Swimming Pool?
In most cases, this issue resolves itself with potty training. But, older kids and even adults can occasionally have accidents, too! So, cleaning up a grown-up-sized bowel movement isn’t entirely out of the question.
Luckily, you’ll be prepared, knowing just what to do when someone poops in the pool!
Do you need help with an emergency cleanup or routine maintenance? Is your backyard oasis in need of an upgrade?
Contact BPS Pools or call (281) 890-3040 for a free, no-obligation quote. Our team of experts has been making swimming pool dreams a reality for Houston homeowners since 1978, and will be happy to help you, too!
