Health Officials Offer Safe Swimming Tips

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Minnesota health officials say a few basic precautions can help keep families healthy at the pool and beach.

Despite the recent rain and flooding, the Fourth of July holiday is expected to be busy at Minnesota's beaches and pools. Health officials say best way to prevent water-borne illnesses is to keep germs out of the water in the first place, even chlorinated pools.

They say swimmers can protect themselves and others by following six tips: Don't swallow pool or lake water; practice good hygiene by showering with soap before swimming; wash your hands thoroughly after using the toilet or changing diapers; don't swim when you have diarrhea; take children on bathroom breaks or change diapers often; and change diapers in a bathroom, not at poolside or on the beach.