| Basic precautions for recreation
in natural water bodies (particularly for children): |
- Avoid getting water get in your mouth – if
it does, spit it out. Beach sand or creek bed sediment generally
has bacteria in it, probably more than the water does.
- Wash your hands before putting them in your
mouth, or using them to eat. If you can’t wash, handle snacks
by the wrapper and keep water bottles available for cleaning.
- Avoid swimming after heavy rains, especially near storm drain outlets. Water that is turbid or
cloudy with dirt will have much more bacteria or other dangers in it.
- Look (and sniff) for trash, oil slicks, concentrations of bird droppings, discharge pipes, or
other signs of localized contamination. If present, it would be better to swim elsewhere.
- If you tend to get ear or eye infections, consider using earplugs or swim goggles. If you
have open skin cuts or scrapes, clean them with soap and water after swimming.
- Consider wearing shoes while swimming or wading. Broken glass, metal, or other debris
may cause injuries that could increase the risk of bacterial infections. Plus, cut feet are unpleasant even without bacterial concerns.
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