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VERIFY: Debunking several common myths about pools

Let's take a look at a couple of common claims so you know what to do before you hop into that crisp, cool water.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — With temperatures expected to reach the 90s this weekend, you may want to cool off in the pool. Before you do, there are some things you should know. 

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The WCNC Charlotte VERIFY team is taking a look at a couple of common claims about pools so you know what to do before you hop into that crisp, cool water. 

THE SOURCES:

THE CLAIM: 

You have to wait a half hour after eating before you can safely go swimming. 

THE ANSWER: 

   

This is false.

No, you do not have to wait a half hour after eating before you can safely swim.

WHAT WE FOUND: 

In 2011, the American Red Cross reviewed 50 years of scientific literature about eating and swimming and found that eating before swimming is not a contributing risk for drowning. 

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The Mayo Clinic also states if you get cramps while swimming it's likely caused by dehydration, overuse of a muscle, or muscle strain. 

THE CLAIM:

If you get red eyes from swimming, it means there is too much chlorine in the water. 

THE ANSWER:

This is false.

False, getting red eyes from swimming does not necessarily mean there is too much chlorine in the water.

WHAT WE FOUND:

According to the Mayo Clinic, red eye is when blood vessels expand or dilate due to irritation. 

Duke University states those red itchy eyes are usually caused by improper PH or high chloramine levels. So they state this is false, and the pool may need additional chlorine treatment to sanitize the water. 

Contact Meghan Bragg at mbragg@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram

VERIFY is dedicated to helping the public distinguish between true and false information. The VERIFY team, with help from questions submitted by the audience, tracks the spread of stories or claims that need clarification or correction. Have something you want VERIFIED? Text us at 704-329-3600 or visit VERIFY.

WCNC Charlotte's Verify series is all about trying to make a difference in the Carolinas by making sure the community has the correct information. WCNC Charlotte outlines concisely what we know and what we don't know. Sometimes the answer can be surprising. Watch previous stories where we verify social media claims in the YouTube playlist below and subscribe to get updated when new videos are uploaded.

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