Latest news with #publicpools
Independent Singapore
7 days ago
- General
- Independent Singapore
'Where can I sleep if I have no home?': Netizens share being homeless in Singapore
Singapore: In a heartfelt Reddit thread posted recently on r/askSingapore, a user asked a question that cut through the curated sheen of modern Singaporean life: 'Where can I sleep and shower without a home in Singapore?' The hidden homeless Unlike in many other global cities, homelessness in Singapore rarely involves large visible encampments or tents. It often wears an invisible face, someone dozing in an airport terminal, washing up at a public pool, or spending the night in a parked car. These people become the 'hidden homeless', citizens and residents who don't have a stable, safe place to sleep, yet remain outside the traditional social safety net. One user shared their survival strategy during a difficult period: 'I was homeless for a few months. Showered at public pools — cost a dollar at the time. Slept at Changi Airport or moved every few hours from place to place. I hope no one faces this situation, especially a female like myself.' Another recounted how they lived out of a rented car for six months, parking near parks or work to get some rest. Public swimming pools and even the showers at their workplace helped maintain basic hygiene, but the struggle was constant. 'It's hot, uncomfortable, and sometimes impossible to sleep. Then you still have to show up for work the next day.' Singapore's high cost of shelter At the root of many of these stories lies the harsh economic reality of rising rents and limited access to affordable housing. In Singapore, single citizens under the age of 35 are often left without enough housing support unless they co-purchase with someone else, typically a partner. Rental options in the private market are often far out of reach, particularly for those who are facing underemployment, unemployment or without family support. And while social services exist, navigating them can be difficult. Some users shared that they were hesitant to approach governmental agencies, either due to extended waiting times, stigma, or because they assumed they weren't eligible for 'help'. Others pointed out that social service organisations are often overwhelmed, stretched thin by growing demand as rents rise faster than wages. Amid these DIY survival strategies, one comment stood out — offering a concrete resource that even some of the formerly homeless weren't aware of: 'Please Google any S3P (Safe Sound Sleeping Places) near your area. They are shelters for rough sleepers — safe, with showers, sometimes even meals. Some are run by religious groups, but you don't have to follow the faith to stay there.' S3Ps are low-barrier shelter spaces coordinated through MSF's Partners Engaging and Empowering Rough Sleepers (PEERS) network. They provide immediate, temporary nighttime accommodation, typically between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m., with access to basic hygiene and a safe sleeping environment. For those who qualify, some social service offices may also provide case management, food vouchers, and transitional housing support. A system under pressure Singapore prides itself on planning, safety, and efficiency. But these stories reveal a pressure point in the system, particularly for those who don't fit the traditional mould: young, single, unemployed individuals with no family safety net. The most striking part of the Reddit thread wasn't just the vulnerability of the original question but how many responded with their own stories of quiet determination that is often invisible. If you are or know anyone in need of help:
Khaleej Times
11-07-2025
- Health
- Khaleej Times
Are public pools abroad safe? UAE experts weigh in on hygiene, chlorine rash risks
As residents travel abroad, medics in the UAE are urging everyone to be cautious while using public pools, bathhouses or going to water parks. While a refreshing dip in the pool is a popular way to beat the summer heat, doctors caution that not all pools are as safe and clean as they might seem. Recommended For You Poorly maintained pools can serve as breeding grounds for parasites, bacteria, and viruses — potentially leading to a range of illnesses including diarrhoea, skin rashes, ear infections, and even respiratory issues. Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels. According to Verywell Health , the average adult swallows about one tablespoon of pool water during a 45-minute swim — 'more than enough to make you sick,' according to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The data further reveals that a person can bring 10 million microbes into a pool from their hair alone. Hands can carry another five million, and just one drop of spit can add eight million more. While not all microbes are harmful, some pose serious health risks. Dr Sherin Hussain, Specialist Internal Medicine at Medeor Hospital Abu Dhabi, highlighted the difference in pool maintenance standards across countries. 'Unlike the well-maintained pools in the UAE, swimming in poorly maintained pools can lead to stomach issues, skin rashes, and ear infections due to the presence of bacteria and parasites. In rare cases, contaminated aerosols may also trigger respiratory infections.' 'To prevent chlorine rashes and infections, make it a habit to shower both before and after swimming. Avoid swimming with open cuts, apply barrier creams, and use swim caps and earplugs,' added Hussain. Although pools and water parks are commonly treated with chlorine and bromine to kill germs, they are not sterile environments. What is Cryptosporidium? In fact, some microbes such as Cryptosporidium — a parasite responsible for waterborne diarrhoea — can survive in well-maintained pools for over 10 days. The CDC advises staying out of water for at least two weeks after recovering from diarrhoea. Even small amounts of faecal matter — equivalent to just 'a few grains of sand' — can wash off bodies and contaminate pool water. Dr Mazza Salahaldin, Specialist Family Medicine at NMC Specialty Hospital, Al Ain, warned of a variety of health issues associated with unclean pool water. 'These risks can stem from exposure to bacteria, viruses, and parasites in the water, or from chemical irritants used to maintain the pool. Gastrointestinal illnesses can happen by swallowing contaminated pool water can lead to diarrhoea, vomiting, and stomach cramps, often caused by bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, or viruses like Norovirus. Bacterial skin infections can occur if bacteria enter through cuts or scrapes, or if the pool water is contaminated with bacteria like Staphylococcus. Swimmer's ear, an infection of the outer ear canal, can result from water remaining in the ear for extended periods.' How often should public pools be cleaned? Doctors frequently treat swimmers for eye and ear infections, high fever, stomach cramps, and diarrhoea after exposure to unkempt swimming facilities. Vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems are especially at risk of more severe symptoms. Dr Salahaldin added, 'Legionella bacteria, which can cause Legionnaires' disease, can be present in pool water and inhaled through mist or aerosols leading to respiratory infections. While uncommon, eye infections like Acanthamoeba keratitis can occur from contaminated pool water. Over-chlorination or sensitivity to chlorine can cause skin irritation, dryness, itching, and rashes.' Health professionals advise that public pools be cleaned at least two to three times per week and that the water should be changed at least once a month to maintain hygiene standards. Dr Mohamed Sufiyan Shajahan, Specialist Internal Medicine at Aster Clinic, Nuaimiah, Ajman emphasised the need for stricter protocols during peak travel seasons. 'During peak seasons, crowded pools need strict maintenance. Proper chlorination, filtration and public hygiene practices are essential and should be encouraged to prevent waterborne diseases.'
CBS News
29-06-2025
- Climate
- CBS News
Several Boston public pools to remain closed through summer for repairs
At least nine of the 20 public pools in Boston are currently closed, and five will remain closed for repairs through the summer. A majority of the closures are impacting communities of color in Dorchester, Mattapan, and Roxbury. Holland Community Center in Dorchester has been closed since the COVID-19 pandemic. The pool area has become dirty and rusty. One employee says they have been getting calls about when the location will reopen. But Mayor Michelle Wu says the city is working quickly to get the pools back up and running after a heat wave swept through Boston earlier this week. People flocked to public pools across Massachusetts as temperatures reached 100 on Tuesday. "By the end of this year, we'll have more pools open than anytime in the last decade in the city of Boston. Many of these pools have been closed for a long time. Some have had to be closed because of public health issues that came up with a pump or a filtration system that stopped working," Mayor Wu said. She said that many of the pools are located at schools or community centers, where repairs can only be done during the summer months. Many of the renovations are expected to be finished by the end of the year or by the end of summer. Community leaders in Roxbury and Dorchester say they have been getting a lot of calls asking when the pools will reopen, and that the city's timeline is not soon enough. In 2023, ten of the then 18 public pools were closed during a heat wave for renovations. Closed public pools in Boston The nine pools currently closed are: BCYF Perkins in Dorchester BCYF Holland in Dorchester BCYF Hennigan in Jamaica Plain BPS Madison Park in Roxbury BCYF Blackstone in Boston's South End BCYF Condon in South Boston, which is set to open in July. BCYF Mildred Avenue in Mattapan says it will open in July. BCYF Mirabella in Boston's North End is set to open on July 1. BCYF Clougherty Pool in Charlestown officially opened for the season on Saturday. For a full list of open public pools and splash pads in Boston, click here.
CBS News
27-06-2025
- Climate
- CBS News
NYC public pools open for summer 2025 today. Here's what's new and how to find one near you.
New York City's free, public pools officially open for the summer today, including a brand new pool in Central Park. The Parks Department operates more than 75 outdoor pools across the five boroughs. Here's everything to know about how to find one near you. The city also has a dozen indoor pools that are open all year, and public beaches have already opened for the season. Click here to find a city cooling center, or here for other water features, like sprinklers and fountains. When do NYC public pools open? The outdoor pools open at 11 a.m. on Friday, June 27 -- the first day of summer recess for city public school students. Pools will be open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, with an hour break for cleaning between 3 and 4 p.m. The Parks Department says there is often a line to enter the pools, but on busy days it takes steps to make sure more people have a chance to swim by adding sessions, limiting the amount of time in pools, or handing out bracelets to come back later and skip the line. The commissioner says they are in good shape with lifeguards after last year's shortage. "So far this year, we have about 680 certified lifeguards on staff, which is already more than what we had last year at this time," Commissioner Iris Rodriguez-Rosa said Thursday. Pools will remain open through Labor Day, and the larger ones will stay open until Sept. 7. Find a public pool near me in NYC The pools range in size, but the most popular ones are the 14 Olympic-sized pools: Brooklyn: Betsy Head Pool, Kosciuszko Pool, McCarren Park Pool, Red Hook Pool and Sunset Park Pool Betsy Head Pool, Kosciuszko Pool, McCarren Park Pool, Red Hook Pool and Sunset Park Pool The Bronx: Crotona Pool and Van Cortlandt Pool Crotona Pool and Van Cortlandt Pool Manhattan: Gottesman Pool at the Davis Center, Hamilton Fish Pool, Highbridge Pool, Jackie Robinson Pool and Thomas Jefferson Pool Gottesman Pool at the Davis Center, Hamilton Fish Pool, Highbridge Pool, Jackie Robinson Pool and Thomas Jefferson Pool Queens: Astoria Pool Astoria Pool Staten Island: Lyons Pool Click here to find a pool near your neighborhood. Brand new Gottesman Pool in Central Park The Gottesman Pool is making its debut this summer at Central Park's new Davis Center. Located in the park's northeastern-most tip, the center replaces the old Lasker Rink, a facility that was built in the 1960s and had become run down. The new space features a turf field in the spring and fall that is then rolled back to reveal a swimming pool for the summer. It will then be transformed into a skating rink for the winter. NYC public pool rules City pools have strict rules about what you can and can't wear or bring with you. Swimsuits are required, and only plain, white shirts and hats are allowed. You're also required to bring a lock to keep your belongings safe. The Parks Department says sunscreen is available at all locations. You're not allowed to bring food, glass bottles, electronic devices or newspapers. Officials also recommend leaving valuables, like jewelry and credit cards, at home. Learn to swim The city offers free swim lessons for multiple age groups. While some of the registration deadlines have passed for this summer, you can sign up for the next lottery here. The city also has a variety of swim programs, including adaptive swim for people with disabilities, senior water exercises and youth swim teams. See our past list of best pools and beaches for the summer around NYC here.
CTV News
24-06-2025
- Climate
- CTV News
Swimmers flock to Toronto public pools to cool off amid oppressive heatwave
Video City pools are packed with swimmers trying to stay cool during a heat wave. Beatrice Vaisman reports on why five of Toronto's public pools were closed Sunday.
