Precautions for bathers at public pools or multi-user hot tubs:
(1) Limit exposure time in the water.
(2) Avoid bathing in hot tubs that have been used by a large number of people. Do not use a hot tub late in the day.
(3) Stay out of water that is cloudy or has a cloudy film.
(4) If you have used a questionable pool or hot tub, avoid vigorous showering with antibacterial soap afterwards, since this can (a) remove the normal protective "barriers" and (b) produce skin abrasions. Showering with clean water with gentle drying should be sufficient for initial cleansing.
where:
• The assumption in not using a hot tub late in the day is that cleaning and maintenance take place at night. If the tub is cleaned in the late afternoon, then using the tub late in the day may be safe. If the tub is not being properly maintained, using the tub at any time is unsafe.
• Some of the uncertainty can be reduced (or concern increased) by checking with the operators for cleaning schedule and maintenance schedule.
Additional items I would add:
(1) Stay out of the water if you have serious doubts about the level of cleansing and maintenance.
(2) Avoid abrasions to feet and skin.
