Pool News
The Dirty Truth About Public Pools

Ah, summertime—the season of vacations, sunscreen, and the perpetual challenge of keeping restless kids entertained. But before you eagerly take the plunge into the inviting waters one of your favorite public pools it’s crucial to uncover the unspoken truths that lie beneath the surface.
Public pools have long held a notorious reputation for harboring more than just playful splashes. For those who pride themselves on their germophobia, the common belief of “ignorance is bliss” simply doesn’t apply in the realm of scientific facts. Brace yourself, for the revelations to come are more cringe-worthy than fiction itself. Prepare to dive deep into a world where truth prevails and surprises lurk around every corner.
Just How Dirty Are Public Pools?
Let’s dive straight into the facts:
One in Five People Admit to Peeing in the Pool

According to a 2019 survey conducted by the Water Quality & Health Council (WQHC), a staggering 40% of Americans confessed to having relieved themselves while swimming in a pool, and yes, that includes adults. However, the issue extends beyond the realm of mere grossness. Officials warn that when urine mixes with chlorine, it depletes the germ-fighting properties of the chemical, leaving the water more vulnerable to other bacteria.
In an equally unpleasant revelation, the survey discovered that 24% of Americans admitted to swimming in a public pool within one hour of experiencing diarrhea. Need we say more?
More Than Half of People Use the Pool as a Communal Bathtub

If urination alone didn’t contribute enough unnecessary germs to the pool water, most Americans confessed to skipping a shower before taking a dip. Some even confessed to using the pool as a means to “rinse off” after yard work or exercise.
In a revealing 2012 report by the Water Quality and Health Council, an alarming statistic emerged: nearly 70 percent of individuals neglect to shower before immersing themselves in the pool, thereby contributing to the proliferation of germs within the water.
Chlorine Isn’t the Culprit Behind Red Eyes

If you’ve been blaming chlorine for the stinging sensation in your eyes, think again. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reveals that the true culprits are the various substances found in the water, including urine, fecal matter, sweat, dirt, skin cells, and personal care products like deodorant, makeup, and lotion. When chlorine reacts with these substances, it creates “chloramines,” which are responsible for those bloodshot eyes.
Furthermore, the strong smell of chlorine around a pool is not an indication of cleanliness; rather, it suggests the presence of chloramines. So, paradoxically, the less you smell, the cleaner the water.
Only 21% Regularly Test Pool Water

While you most will routinely check the chlorine levels in their own private pool at home, only one in five people claim to regularly check chlorine levels and pH in public pools.
There’s Probably Poop In The Water

In a recent eye-opening report, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed a distressing reality: a staggering 1 in 8 public pools, hot tubs, and water playgrounds were forced to shut down due to severe health and safety violations. These violations included the presence of excessively dirty water that posed significant risks to swimmers.
The primary culprit behind such contamination? Fecal matter. Alarming as it may sound, the report highlights that fecal matter is often introduced into the water through children or individuals who swim despite suffering from diarrhea.
According to the CDC report, contamination can occur through direct release of formed or diarrheal feces. Shockingly, even the innocent act of water contact can lead to up to 10 grams of fecal material rinsing off a young child’s perianal surface and finding its way into the pool water.
The authors of the report also emphasize a crucial fact: swim diapers, though widely used and believed to offer protection, do not provide foolproof prevention against feces, urine, or infectious pathogens from entering and contaminating the water.
Chlorine Doesn’t Kill All Germs

In the ongoing quest to maintain clean and safe pool water, chlorine stands as a trusted ally, capable of eradicating harmful germs that may lead to illness if consumed. However, it’s important to recognize that chlorine’s germ-fighting abilities require time to take effect.
This potent chemical has the power to eliminate the majority of germs within a matter of minutes. Nevertheless, there are certain stubborn culprits, such as Cryptosporidium, fondly known as “Crypto,” which can persist in properly treated pool water for several days.
Crypto, a microscopic parasite, poses a unique challenge due to its ability to form a protective outer shell, making it resilient to chlorine’s immediate effects. While chlorine plays a vital role in neutralizing various pathogens, Crypto’s endurance highlights the importance of comprehensive pool maintenance protocols beyond solely relying on chlorine as a disinfectant.
How to Protect Yourself at Public Pools

Armed with these unsettling facts, it’s crucial to approach public pools with caution and take proactive measures to protect your health and well-being. Here are some tips to ensure a safer swimming experience:
- Practice Good Personal Hygiene: Always shower thoroughly with soap and water before entering the pool to minimize the introduction of contaminants.
- Don’t Contribute to the Problem: Avoid swimming if you or your children are suffering from gastrointestinal illnesses, and encourage proper bathroom usage.
- Be Informed: Check for up-to-date inspection reports of public pools and inquire about water quality testing protocols implemented by the facility.
- Protect Yourself: Consider using waterproof bandages or swim diapers for young children to minimize the risk of accidents and fecal contamination.
- Take Responsibility: If you witness unsanitary conditions or suspect inadequate pool maintenance, notify pool staff or local health authorities to address the issue promptly.
While public pools can offer an enjoyable summer respite, it’s vital to be aware of the potential risks they pose. By staying informed and exercising caution, you can make smart decisions about your swimming activities and take steps to mitigate the risks.
Remember, the cleanliness and safety of public pools are a shared responsibility. Pool operators must prioritize regular maintenance, thorough water testing, and enforcement of hygiene protocols to ensure a healthier swimming environment. However, as a swimmer, you also play a vital role in safeguarding your well-being. By adopting good personal hygiene practices, such as showering before entering the pool and refraining from swimming while ill, you can minimize the introduction of contaminants into the water which will contribute to a safer swimming experience for everyone.
Pool News
Landmark Aquatic Brings Poolside Adventures Attractions Nationwide

Poolside Adventures and Landmark Aquatic have joined forces to bring big-impact attractions with a small footprint to aquatic facilities across the country. The partnership pairs Poolside Adventures’ AquaClimb®, AquaZip’N® and AquaNinja® FLX attractions with Landmark’s expansive nationwide reach and proven expertise in aquatic facility design, construction, renovation, and maintenance.
Poolside Adventures attractions add excitement to aquatic facilities without a major renovation because they anchor directly to an existing pool deck with no water hookups, special tools or added concrete and reinforcement. In fact, the modular AquaClimb® walls can start with one section and grow with budgets. The AquaZip’N® is rapidly becoming a new, safer alternative to diving boards as it only requires four feet of water depth, can be installed in just a few hours, and has a throughput of six riders a minute.
“Some municipalities can’t afford a new water park or perhaps cannot renovate their pool this year,” said Cherie Moy, VP of Marketing and Strategic Partnerships for Poolside Adventures. “Our products are an easy answer: a big impact with a small footprint, adding an ‘active attraction’ that makes the pool more exciting.”
“Landmark has a large footprint across the country, and we’re especially excited about their reach into HOA communities, a growing market where our partnership has already led to multiple installations,” said Moy. “Together, we will help clients find the right fit for their space, their budget and to add action and adventure to their pool experience.”
Matt Cappello, Vice President of Design at Landmark Aquatic agrees saying, “We’re excited to collaborate with Poolside Adventures to promote the versatility, ease of installation and entertainment value their products will bring to more pools across the country.”
About Landmark
Since 1967, Landmark Aquatic has helped communities and organizations bring complex aquatic facilities to life and keep them performing. Today, we are the nation’s largest integrated commercial aquatics platform, providing design, construction, renovation, restoration, and maintenance services nationwide. Our construction-led expertise and long-term service capabilities give customers one trusted partner across every stage of a facility’s lifecycle. For the life of your pool. Learn more at www.landmarkaquatic.com.
About Poolside Adventures
For more than 20 years, Poolside Adventures’ flagship AquaClimb® has led the market for poolside climbing walls. Its full line, including the AquaClimb® Luxe, AquaZip’N® and AquaNinja® FLX, delivers challenging, safe fun for swimmers of all ages. For more about Poolside Adventures visit www.aquaclimb.com.
Pool News
Shasta Pools Hires 30-Year Builder to Head Residential Construction

Vic Harshman brings extensive pool building experience to key leadership role
- Decades of proven pool construction experience across Nevada, Arizona and Texas
- Previously served as Shasta Pools’ exclusive excavation contractor
- Predecessor handpicked Harshman to grow position under new leadership team
SCOTTSDALE, Arizona (October 5, 2026) – Shasta Pools, Phoenix Metro’s most recognized pool builder, named Vic Harshman as Head of Residential Construction. Harshman joins the new leadership team with more than three decades of hands-on industry experience and a long-standing relationship with the company to one of its most critical leadership roles.
Harshman has held senior construction leadership positions in Arizona and Texas, and worked closely with Shasta Pools, developing firsthand knowledge about the company’s standards, culture and customers. The appointment reflects the momentum Shasta Pools has built since its August 6 acquisition by Dansons Capital Group, Accrual Equity Partners, and Hydro Construction, and positions the full-service 60-year old pool company for continued growth.
Leadership Perspective
“Vic brings exactly the kind of no-nonsense, customer-first leadership our residential construction division needs,” said Jeff Thiessen, President, Dansons Capital Group. “His philosophy is deeply aligned with ours. Keeping customers’ needs as the foremost priority at every stage of the build process is at the center of everything we do, and Vic lives that every day.”
Harshman’s career in pool construction began at age 19, when he purchased a backhoe and launched a business digging plumbing trenches and footings. When the housing market declined in the late 1980s, he relocated to Las Vegas and began excavating swimming pools, a move that led to the creation of Harshman Excavating.
Harshman built and operated excavation businesses in Nevada, Arizona and Texas, primarily serving the pool industry, and served for a period as Shasta’s exclusive excavation contractor.
In 2012, Harshman joined A&A Manufacturing, serving pool builders across an eight-state region and growing annual sales by 10x. In 2020, he joined Keith Zars Pools in Texas as Director of Construction, where he brought together decades of ownership, leadership and industry knowledge.
A Return Rooted in Relationships
“I have always believed that strong relationships, hard work, accountability and taking care of people are the foundation of a successful business,” said Vic Harshman, Head of Residential Construction, Shasta Pools. “Shasta has been a meaningful part of my career for many years. I am genuinely excited to come back and help lead this team into a very exciting future.”
Harshman steps into the role with the full support of Dan Thiessen, Chairman of the new ownership team, and John Mortensen, the outgoing head of residential construction. Mortensen recommended Harshman for the position and will now serve as the company’s lead trainer. That transition reflects Shasta Pools’ commitment to investing in its people and preserving institutional knowledge as the organization continues to grow.
ABOUT SHASTA POOLS:
Shasta Pools is Arizona’s trusted name in custom pool building, proudly serving the Valley since 1966. For 60 years, Shasta has transformed backyards into beautiful, functional spaces where families relax, entertain and enjoy life. The company specializes in new pool construction, remodeling, pool service and landscape design with plans for expansion into the home services market to provide customers with complete home care solutions. Learn more at ShastaPools.com.
ABOUT DANSONS CAPITAL GROUP:
Dansons Capital Group, headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, is a family-owned and family-managed investment firm built on shared values, integrity and long-term vision. The firm was established by the founders of Dansons, Inc., the company that launched and sold Pit Boss Grills. The company takes a hands-on approach, actively seeking opportunities across global markets and multiple asset classes. Its growing portfolio includes strategic real estate development holdings across multiple countries, oil drilling technologies, and limited partnership investments. Guided by a deep commitment to quality and the communities they serve, the Thiessen family leads with gratefulness for the blessings God has given them and in turn supports those less fortunate. Dansons Capital Group continues to identify and cultivate opportunities that reflect their family’s values and generational vision.
ABOUT ACCRUAL EQUITY PARTNERS:
Accrual Equity Partners (AEP) is a founder-led, privately funded private equity group built on the belief that every person, every percentage, and every product matters. This commitment, known as the “Power of One,” drives AEP’s mission to empower businesses and secure legacies across fragmented, service-based industries. AEP partners with founder-led and family-owned businesses to overcome barriers and unlock their full potential through strategic investment, operational performance enhancement, and advisory services. For more information, visit AccrualEquityPartners.com.
ABOUT HYDRO CONSTRUCTION:
Hydro Construction, LLC (HydroCon) was founded in 1986 to serve Arizona’s commercial pool construction and renovation market. Under the leadership of Curt Lonsdale, the company’s commercial pool construction division now manages some of the largest and most complex projects in the country.
Pool News
NTCA Welcomes Jennifer Ibe and Rachel Smith to the Team

Flowood, MS, October 1 – The National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) is pleased to announce the addition of Jennifer Ibe as Membership and Sponsorship Sales Manager and Rachel Smith as Membership Marketing Manager. The two new positions strengthen NTCA’s focus on membership growth, retention, engagement, and delivering greater value to members.
“Growing and strengthening our membership is a key priority for the NTCA, and Jennifer and Rachel bring the experience and expertise to help us do that,” said Jeremy Sax, Deputy Director of NTCA. “Their complementary skills will allow us to take a more strategic approach to both membership development and the overall member experience.”
Jennifer Ibe, Membership and Sponsorship Sales Manager
Ibe brings more than 10 years of experience in association events, sales, sponsorships, relationship management, and strategic growth. Most recently, she served as Director of Sponsorship and Sales for the Global Workspace Association, where she led major conferences, sponsorship development, budgets, and initiatives that increased attendance by 33% and profitability by 30%.
At the NTCA, Ibe will lead membership recruitment, retention, re-engagement, and relationship development while supporting sponsorship and partner revenue opportunities. She will also represent the NTCA at major industry events and help strengthen relationships with members and prospective members.
Ibe holds a B.A. in Communications from the University of Illinois at Chicago.
Rachel Smith, Membership Marketing Manager
Smith brings extensive association experience in membership, communications, digital engagement, and member programming. Most recently, she served as Digital Communications Manager for the Association of Electric Companies of Texas. Previously, as Director of Membership for the Texas Economic Development Council, she managed more than 1,000 members and developed programs to increase member engagement and networking. She also served as Membership Coordinator for the Texas Association of Community Health Centers, where she managed more than 5,000 members and led new-member onboarding and retention initiatives.
At NTCA, Smith will focus on member onboarding, retention campaigns, communications, digital engagement, webinars, events, and community development. She will also support membership analytics and digital initiatives aimed at strengthening the member experience.
Smith holds a B.A. in Communications with a minor in Social Justice from West Virginia Wesleyan College.
“Jennifer’s focus on relationship-building and membership development, combined with Rachel’s experience in member communications and engagement, gives us a strong team focused on every stage of the member journey,” Sax added. “We’re excited about what this means for our members and for the future growth of NTCA.”
About NTCA
Established in 1947, the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) is a nonprofit trade association dedicated to the professional installation of ceramic tile and natural stone. It is widely recognized as the largest and most respected tile contractors’ association in the world. For those seeking to improve their tile business, NTCA provides unparalleled educational experiences, supportive peer interaction, unique cost-savings programs, and a commitment to help develop the skills needed to improve your work, recruit, train, and manage your employees, and ultimately, make your business more profitable. Find out more at www.tile-assn.com.
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