AT HOME

POOLS

Many people enjoy the pleasures of a backyard swimming pool. Pools require substantial chemical treatment, particularly chlorine, to keep the water bacteria-free. Chlorine and other pool maintenance chemicals should never be drained directly into a street or waterbody.

Help prevent water contamination by taking these precautions:

  • Drain your pool only when necessary.
  • Never drain the pool during periods when water restrictions are in place.
  • Allow pool water to stand for several days without any new addition of chemicals before draining, as chlorine dissipates rapidly.
  • Drain the pool slowly over a large expanse of yard so the water filters evenly down through the ground and is absorbed by the soil.
  • Take swimming pool chemicals and containers to a hazardous waste collection center.
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