More recreational water illnesses (RWI) outbreaks were reported in 2007 than ever before, and the numbers could increase in the coming years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The public can help prevent many of these illnesses by educating themselves and their loved ones about healthy swimming/hot tubbing behaviors, learning the warning signs of unhealthy water environments, and according to the CDC's latest recommendations, testing public swimming and spa water for proper chlorine and pH levels themselves.

In an effort to help increase public awareness about all RWIs, the CDC has designated May 19-25, 2008 (the week before Memorial Day weekend), "National Recreational Water Illness Prevention Week."

Visit the CDC Healthy Swimming Website to learn more....