See the latest public pool scores + what to know to swim safely in Bham

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Summer in Birmingham requires one thing above almost everything else: water.

But while you’re cooling off, local health officials say a few simple habits can help keep everyone safer around the water.

We spoke with Jefferson County Department of Health (JCDH) about what residents should know, from public pool inspections to hidden mosquito breeding grounds in their own backyards. Here’s how to keep your cool—safely—all summer long in Birmingham.

1. Your neighborhood pool gets a score, just like your local restaurants

Most people know restaurants receive health inspections. Public pools around Birmingham? Same idea.

According to Andrews, JCDH inspectors visit public pools at least once every month during swim season, checking everything from chlorine levels to overall cleanliness.

Inspectors test:

• Chlorine levels
• pH balance
• Total alkalinity
• Filtration systems
• Pool decks + surrounding areas
• General cleanliness, including skimmers + debris removal

“If there’s no chlorine in the pool, it’s basically a big bathtub shared with 100 people.”

JC Andrews, Community Environmental Protection Supervisor

The good news: most facilities take chemical maintenance seriously. Lower scores typically stem from housekeeping issues like debris, dirty tile or maintenance concerns—not immediate health hazards. Still, if chemical levels fall outside safe ranges, pools can be closed until corrections are made.

Here’s a look at some local pools with 100 scores:

• UAB Aquatics Center
• Homewood Suites at UAB
• YMCA Mountain Brook
• Iron City Lofts
• UAB Campus Recreation Center

Check out more of the latest pool scores around Birmingham.

2. The gross stuff? It usually comes from swimmers—not the water

Nobody loves thinking about it, but Andrews says the biggest source of bacteria in pools is often the people using them.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that diarrhea-related illnesses are the most common outbreaks associated with recreational water. Even properly chlorinated pools can harbor certain germs, including Cryptosporidium, which can survive for more than a week in treated water.

A few easy rules make a huge difference:

• Shower before swimming
• Stay out of the pool if you’re sick
• Don’t swallow pool water
• Take children on regular bathroom breaks

Andrews adds one more tip that many people overlook: If you have an open cut or scrape, consider staying out of the water until it heals. Even small wounds can create an easier pathway for bacteria if pool chemistry isn’t properly maintained.

3. Your flower pot or bird bath could be a mosquito nursery

Summer in Alabama means mosquito season—and stagnant water is public enemy No. 1.

“Heat accelerates the mosquito life cycle. What might normally take several days can happen much faster during the summer.”

JC Andrews, Community Environmental Protection Supervisor

The Alabama Department of Public Health reports that West Nile virus has been identified in every public health district across the state, making mosquito prevention especially important during warmer months.

The surprising part? The problem often starts with everyday items around the house.

JCDH recommends checking:

• Flower pot trays
• Children’s toys left outdoors
• Bird baths + feeders
• Buckets + containers
• Gutters
• Areas beneath decks + porches
• Anything that collects rainwater

It doesn’t take much—just a small amount of standing water can provide the perfect breeding ground.

BONUS: After heavy rain, give your yard a quick inspection

Afternoon thunderstorms are practically part of Birmingham’s summer identity. After a rainy stretch, Andrews recommends doing a quick walk-around your property to identify places where water may be lingering.

That five-minute check can help reduce mosquito populations near your home and make outdoor gatherings a lot more enjoyable.

Bonus: Your neighbors will probably appreciate it, too.

Birmingham water safety starts with simple habits

JCDH is working hard behind the scenes to make sure Birmingham’s pools are safe and its neighborhoods aren’t overrun with mosquitoes—but a little awareness from residents helps enormously.

Check pool scores before you dive in, keep your cuts covered, skip the swim if you’re under the weather, and give your backyard a once-over for standing water after the next big rain.

Summer’s too good to spend it sick. Stay safe out there, Birmingham!

For more resources on environmental health and public safety, check out the Jefferson County Department of Health online.

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