What's lurking beneath the shimmering surface of your pool? Accidents happen, and sometimes, they involve unexpected guests including bats.
The reality is, pools can become unexpected traps for a variety of creatures. Beyond the inviting cool of the water, pools may, at times, serve as a final destination for animals that often venture into backyards. Skunks, birds, mice, gophers, rats, snakes, frogs, and, yes, bats, can all be found, sometimes deceased, in the seemingly tranquil environment of a swimming pool. This occurrence isn't exactly a common topic of polite conversation, but it's a real-world issue for pool owners across the globe. Dealing with these "pool accidents" can be a bit daunting, but understanding the steps to take can ensure a swift and safe return to enjoying your aquatic haven.
Here's a concise guide to navigating this tricky situation, helping you keep your pool pristine and your mind at ease. Remember, the safety of you and your loved ones is the paramount consideration.
| Subject | Details |
|---|---|
| Cause | Accidental entry, attracted by water, falling in and unable to escape. |
| Common victims | Bats, birds, rodents, reptiles, amphibians. |
| Pools at Risk | All Pools, especially those near wooded areas or with easy access. |
| Prevention Measures | Pool covers, screen enclosures, bat houses. |
| Action to Take | Remove animal, disinfect pool, test and balance water chemistry. |
The very first and most critical step upon discovering an animal, or any form of organic matter, in your pool is to immediately order all swimmers out of the water and turn off the pool pump. This will halt the circulation of potentially contaminated water. Close the pool to prevent anyone from entering until you've addressed the situation. It's also wise to inform your neighbors.
Next, you must remove the deceased animal. While this may not be a pleasant task, it's essential for your health and safety. Always don disposable gloves before handling the animal. Use a net or similar tool to retrieve the animal from the pool. Once removed, properly dispose of the animal according to local regulations. The best practice is to contact your local animal control to see what process they have in place.
With the animal removed, it's time to disinfect the pool. This involves shocking the pool with a higher concentration of chlorine than usual. Consult your local pool supply store for specific recommendations based on the size of your pool. They'll be able to determine the correct chlorine level (often around 20 ppm) needed to eliminate any potential bacteria or contaminants. Keep the pool running with the filter on while the chlorine does its job.
After shocking the pool, test the water and rebalance it once the chlorine level returns to normal. This might take several days, depending on the size of your pool and the initial chlorine levels. Once the water is balanced, your pool is usually safe to use again. Remember to keep testing your water weekly or bi-weekly to ensure the water remains clean and safe for everyone.
Preventive measures are always the best approach. Investing in a screen enclosure is a practical step toward avoiding such situations. A pool cover will also deter animals from entering when the pool is not in use. Installing bat houses away from your pool can be a surprisingly effective strategy. This encourages bats to roost in a designated area, rather than around the pool, potentially averting a tragedy.
Bats, attracted to pools for hydration, don't always fare well. As Kate CJ Murphy, president of Townsville Bat Rescue Australia, explained, "the lap pool looks like a river to a bat who is learning about life". In Townsville, a juvenile red flying fox was found struggling in a resort pool on a Thursday morning, its story a reminder of the dangers that pools present to wildlife. Unlike many other mammals, bats have a lower reproduction rate, making the loss of even one bat a greater detriment to their population. This is why understanding how pools become accidental bat baths is an ongoing area of research.
It's important to know that the overall rate of rabies in bats is around 1%. However, in bats submitted for testing, the rate might be higher due to those that are injured, sick, or grounded. Even with that higher rate, it's only around 10%. Transmission of rabies requires direct contact with blood or brain tissue of an infected animal. If you are bitten or scratched by a bat, seek medical attention immediately and have the bat tested for rabies.
The sighting of bats swooping down near the pool right at dusk can be attributed to their need for water. As OKeefe noted, "they drink quite a lot." A baby bat in Queensland provided another compelling illustration of the issue, swimming straight toward its rescuer after getting stuck in a pool, desperately seeking a drink to quench its thirst in the heat. If you encounter a bat in the pool, approach it with caution, and seek assistance from a qualified animal rescuer or your local animal control to avoid any potential harm.
While dealing with a bat in your pool, or any deceased animal, may seem like a daunting task, it's something most pool owners will have to deal with at some point. It takes time to clean up any decay, sanitize and replace the water. It's a process that is best approached by staying calm and following the steps outlined above. With awareness, preparation, and some preventative measures, you can easily manage these "pool accidents" and keep your pool a safe and enjoyable space for everyone.
