If you’re anything like me, one of the happiest times of your life is the summer Olympics that take place every four years. I mean what’s better than having one of the last weeks of summer off from school be filled with the competitiveness of sports all week? This year, the games are taking place in Rio, Brazil, but it is unsure to many whether Rio is safe for the athletes competing. Between the air, sand and water, the pollution has affected this area greatly and truthfully, probably should not be taking place in this location.

Between the tourist and the athletes, the Olympic Games bring population wherever they are held. For some reason, Brazil thinks they are ready for this. In my opinion, they just want the fame that comes from it, unless they actually are completely unaware of the dangerous pollution around them. Who wouldn't want this amazing event to take place in their part of the world, though? More tourists equal more money and more popularity, but was that all they were focused on?

CNN has reported that Rio has been transforming itself to prepare for the Olympic Games, but lately, I've been hearing about the many dangerous factors surrounding Rio de Janeiro and even though they claim to be "preparing," it is still unsafe.

Although not pinned as Rio's fault, the Zika virus is a major concern of many athletes competing this year. If infected with the virus, it is known to have negative effects on offspring. Those participating in the games, especially for outdoor sports have to be very careful.

Speaking of viruses, a major concern of the Olympics being held in the area is the gruesome water that many are being warned about. Much of the water, if not all is contaminated with sewage, viruses and bacteria. This is not only unsafe for athletes, but also unsafe for tourists around the beaches. Athletes have been warned, "not to put their heads under water" because if so, they are at a dangerous risk.

Not only is the water something to worry about, but it has also been reported that the air alone could be dangerous. Even though it has apparently been "cleared" that Rio's air quality is safe according to the World Health Association's limits, many still die annually due to the pollution in the air. People exposed to this air quality have a higher risk of many deadly diseases.

Regardless of how unprepared and unsafe this area is to have the Olympic Games, they are still happening now through August 21, and they should be interesting. Athletes and tourists must take precautions to be as safe as possible while their time in Rio de Janeiro lasts.