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Water Recreational Facilities
Public water recreation facilities are licensed to meet state standards and are inspected by an Environmental Health specialist.
Services Available
- Plan reviews are conducted by Washington State Department of Health
for new construction or remodels of existing facilities. If you need a plan review please contact DOH:
http://www.doh.wa.gov/ehp/wr/
- Kittitas County Public Health Department provides consultation to pool operators.
- An Environmental Health Specialist investigates all complaints and illnesses related to pools and spas.
- Pool equipment is checked frequently to ensure safety for the public.
- Chemical testing is used to evaluate water quality during inspections
- Water monitoring and record keeping is reviewed, and facility maintenance is checked for safety and cleanliness.
- Educational materials are provided with the latest rules and safety materials.
- Compliance and enforcement is scheduled and monitored if necessary.
Issues
Although drowning rates have slowly declined (Branche 1999), fatal drowning remains the second-leading cause of unintentional injury-related
death for children ages 1 to 14 years (CDC 2005). Although some drowning cases occur at home, keeping public pools and spas
safe for everyone to use is important. Things like water clarity, pool access and barriers and safety equipment that is up to code are all
things that keep pools and spas a safe and fun activity. See CDC's Water-Related Injuries fact sheet for more information.
Local Stats
- There are approximately 50 water recreational facilities in Kittitas County. This includes Swimming pools, spas,
wading and spray pools. Water Recreational places include but are not limited to city funded pools, apartment, condominiums
or home owners associations, hotel/motels, camp sites, or schools. This includes all places used by the public. Swimming pools
or spas at a single private residence are excluded from being permitted but should still exercise the same safety standards as
everyone else.
Get Involved
Internships may be available. Please contact the Environmental Health
Manager for more information at 509-962-7005
Resources & Links
12 Steps for Recreational Water Illnesses Prevention for Pool Staff (www.CDC.gov)
- Lead your staff.
- Develop partnerships.
- Educate pool staff.
- Educate swimmers and parents.
- Maintain water quality and equipment.
- Evaluate aquatic facility design.
- Institute disinfection guidelines.
- Evaluate hygiene facilities.
- Develop a bathroom break policy.
- Create a special policy for large groups of young children.
- Post and distribute health information.
- Develop an outbreak/emergency response plan.
Forms
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