Pool season is here, but with an unfortunate twist —high demand for chlorine in the midst of a nationwide shortage. A national chlorine shortage and price spike is looming due to high demand and reduced production capacity.
Chlorine is a necessary but potentially dangerous chemical used to treat pool and hot tub water to prevent the growth of algae, bacteria, viruses, parasites and other germs.
Being in water contaminated with germs is dangerous to your health. Untreated water can cause infections, illnesses and skin irritation, known as recreational water illnesses (RWIs).
The boom in home swimming pools and hot tubs began last year when the pandemic caused people to cancel travel plans and resort to staycations.
“High demand for a chemical product with limited availability creates a perfect storm for accidental poisoning exposures and injuries,” says Bruce Ruck, managing director of the New Jersey Poison Control Center at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Department of Emergency Medicine.
The New Jersey Poison Control Center is concerned and is warning consumers about the potential for serious side effects and injury from exposure to chlorine products –whether in tablet, powder,granular, or liquid form.
“Since chlorine is a common product, it’s easy to forget that it’s a strong chemical disinfectant that carries significant risk for serious health effects if accidentally exposed or misused,” says Ruck. “Chlorine in any form can cause eye irritation, breathing problems and lung injury if used in high concentrations or in poorly ventilated enclosed spaces.”
Every late spring and summer, the Poison Control Center receives calls related to exposure to pool chemicals, most commonly chlorine.
Although chlorine products should be kept in cool, dry, well-ventilated places, product containers and buckets are often left out in the heat and direct sun. When the chlorine containers are opened, a person can inhale the strong fumes and even get the chemical in their eyes, or splashed on their skin.
“As chlorine tablets continue to be in short supply, many will turn to alternative forms like powders, liquids and granules,” says Ruck. “Before using any product, read the directions on safe use and storage. When used according to their directions, pool chemical products are safe and effective.”
Keep chemicals in a lockable area to limit access to these potentially dangerous products, preventing accidental ingestions and exposures. Do not use chemical products manufactured for commercial use as these have higher chemical concentrations and are unsafe to use around people and pets.
“Do not mix chemicals together as thiscan have a deadly effect,” says Ruck. “Many chemicals when combined produce a toxic gas/fume that can make you sick and cause dangeroushealth effects. If you feel sick after using a chemical product, call your local poison control center right away as this could be a medical emergency.”
The New Jersey Poison Control Center offers the following tips.
• Do not swim while sick as bacteria and other germs can contaminate the water and make others very sick. It’s easy to spread waterborne illnesses. Get out of the pool or hot tub to use the restroom; bodily fluids can contaminate water making it unsafe anddangerous.
• Swallowing pool water can be dangerous. Germs and other chemicals can cause serioushealth effects ifingested.
• Use test strips to check and maintain the necessary chemical levels (pHand chlorine) to keepthe watersafe.
• Store chemicals in a lockable area out of sight and reach of children and pets. Keep them ina cool, dry, well-ventilated area out of thesun.
• Read and follow the safety directions on the product’s label during each use. Alwayskeep chlorine and other chemicals in their original containers to avoid confusion and possible accidentalingestion.
• Never mix chemicals together; the combination could create a toxic gas which could have life-threatening effects. This risk also applies to mixing chemicals with ammonia.
• Chlorine should never be ingested. Avoid shaking chlorine containers to minimize dust, fumes and splashes. Avoid touching chlorine with bare hands.
• Open all chemicals in well-ventilated areas, preferably outdoors. Keep chlorine away from other combustible substances.
• When transporting chemicals, separate incompatible chemicals and tightly secure them to prevent spills.
• Be aware that swimming in chlorinated water can have the following effects: skin irritation that can trigger rashes; burning, itchy eyes; and aggravated bronchial problems including asthma.
If you have questions, concerns or an emergency regarding something potentially dangerous, contact the medical professionals at your local poison control center, 1-800-222-1222.
Do not wait until symptoms occur or spend time looking for medical information online! Get the immediate medical help you or a loved one needsfrom your local poison control center.
If someone is unconscious, not breathing, hard to wake up, or having a seizure, call 9-1-1 immediately.
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