What should be done if a major storm occurs before a scheduled pool event?

Testing and treating the water after a major storm is essential to ensure the safety and health of swimmers. Storms can introduce various contaminants into the pool, such as debris, rainwater, and potentially harmful microorganisms. These contaminants can significantly alter the chemical balance of the pool water, leading to issues such as lowered pH levels, imbalanced disinfectant concentrations, and increased turbidity.

By testing the water, pool operators can assess whether the levels of chlorine, pH, alkalinity, and other important factors are within safe and acceptable ranges. Additional treatment may involve adjusting chemical levels, adding clarifiers, or even conducting a shock treatment to eliminate any pathogens that may have entered the water due to runoff or animal activity. Ensuring the quality of the water is crucial before allowing swimming again, as it directly impacts the health and safety of all individuals using the pool. This is why the focus should be on proper testing and treatment post-storm rather than allowing swimming before verifying safety.