Surprise tests city pools' water as precaution

Although there have been no health-related problems associated with City of Surprise pools, as a precautionary measure the city will send samples of water from both public pools to a lab to test for Cryptosporidium, a parasite that is resistant to chlorine disinfection and causes severe diarrhea.

"We have no reason to believe there is cause for concern here in Surprise," says Assistant City Manager Doug Sandstrom. "However, because of the positive identification of Cryptosporidium in City of Phoenix pools, we thought it would be a prudent measure to test for it in our pools as a commitment to public health and safety."

Maricopa County recently inspected both city pools, the Aquatic Center and Hollyhock Pool, on two different occasions and found water quality and chemicals to be in compliance.

"This is a time where we as a city can help increase public awareness to promote healthy swimming habits," says Sandstrom. The Centers for Disease Control offers the following recommendations to protect yourself and others against recreation water illnesses:

-- Don't swim when you have diarrhea.

-- Don't swallow the pool water.

-- Practice good hygiene. Take a shower before swimming and wash your hands after using the toilet or changing diapers.

-- Take childrne on bathroom breaks or check diapers often.

-- Change diapers in a bathroom and not poolside.

-- Wash your child thoroughly (especially the rear end) with soap and water before swimming.

For more information,  contact Donna Miller at 623-222-2218.