France heatwave drives pool health hazards and rental boom

A prolonged heatwave in France has pushed thousands of people to seek relief in public and private swimming pools. Health authorities warn that the surge in swimmers increases the formation of chloramines, irritating gases produced when chlorine reacts with organic waste, and promotes the rapid growth of bacteria such as E. coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. A 2026 incident in Malaga, Spain, where a pump failure led to chlorine gas poisoning of more than 60 tourists, is cited as a cautionary example.

At the same time, pool owners in the south of France are turning the high demand into a source of income. Platforms such as Swimmy, My PrivatePool and LouerMaPiscinePrivée enable private pool owners to rent their facilities to families and groups for short periods. One retiree in Rognes, near Lambesc, reported earning about €1,500 since June, helping cover maintenance costs. The practice is regulated, and owners are advised to follow safety guidelines to protect both health and property.

The combined effect of the heatwave is therefore two‑fold: heightened public‑health risks in crowded pools and a growing ancillary market for private‑pool rentals.