COVID-19 Helpful Info and Links
Yes. Executive Order 20-91 lists swimming as one of the essential activities that Floridians can participate in during the COVID-19 shelter-in-place. However, operation of the pool and spa should follow the CDC’s social distancing guidelines. Pool deck and swimmer densities should be limited per the CDC’s recommendations to 10 or fewer at one time to allow bathers to maintain proper social distancing. Hard surfaces such as handrails, deck chairs and tables, gate latches and handles should also be regularly cleaned and sanitized. Regular swimming pool and spa water testing and maintenance should still occur to ensure that swimming pool and spa is clean and working. However, community pools may choose to close and should then follow the FL Dept. of Health guidelines DOH guide to voluntary pool closures document.
For Immediate Release: March 19, 2020
Swimming Pools Safe When Properly Maintained
The Center for Disease Control says that COVID-19 cannot be transmitted through properly maintained pools and spas – “There is no evidence that COVID-19 can be spread to humans through the use of pools and hot tubs. Proper operation, maintenance, and disinfection (e.g., with chlorine and bromine) of pools and hot tubs should remove or inactivate the virus that causes COVID-19.” www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/php/water.html
The Florida Swimming Pool Association reminds everyone that while staying at home during the current pandemic, it is a great time to enjoy swimming pools and hot tubs. Pools and spa owners should follow current guidelines of only allowing 10 people in the pool and deck area at a time. By limiting numbers of pool participants and allowing for space between one another, people will help keep each other stay safe while still enjoying the pool.
Proper maintenance, upkeep and testing of pools should be done at regular intervals and preferably performed and monitored by licensed professionals to ensure proper pool and public health. All entry and exit points into and out of the pool and deck area such as ladders, gates, and doors should be properly sanitized throughout the day.
Pools and spas are valuable resources to communities, allowing adults and children access to healthy and safe recreation and relaxation.
The Florida Swimming Pool Association is a trade association for the pool and spa industry in Florida. There are approximately 700 member businesses in 16 Chapters across the state. Members are required to abide by a code of ethics and to be properly licensed and insured. FSPA provides the industry with access to continuing education courses, information on current trends and issues, and an arbitration program and government relations representation. FSPA is governed by a Board of Directors.
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