Hot Tub Safety for Children

Thousands of children are injured every year in hot tub and spa related accidents. Some of these incidences have even resulted in the fatality of young children. Taking the necessary precautions before allowing children into the hot tub can significantly decrease the likeliness of hot tub related injuries. Most people will only allow children to sit on the side and put their toes in the hot tub to avoid injury. Under no circumstance should anyone, let alone a child, put their heads under water.

The following is a list of hazards to which children must be aware of before entering the hot tub:

1. Drowning – Drowning is the most common hot tub related injury for young children. Children under the age of five are especially vulnerable to this type of injury.

Safety Measures - Keep an eye on your children at all times. Never leave children in a hot tub unsupervised and always make sure there is a locked safety cover on your hot tub whenever it is not in use. This will prevent children from climbing on and possibly falling into the hot tub when they are alone. If you are going to allow children into the hot tub please ensure all children wear PFDs, while in it.

2. Trapped Body Parts – Another hazard associated with hot tubs is the possibility of body parts becoming entangled from the suction of the drains. The drains of hot tubs are very strong and have the power to suck in body parts making it very difficult to escape.

Safety Measures – Always make sure to have drain covers on every drain in your hot tub. Also, make sure these drain covers are in good working condition and are not cracked or broken in any way.

3. Hair Entanglement – Like body parts, there is also a risk of hair becoming entangled in the drains of your hot tub. This is especially risky to individuals who have hair past their shoulders.

Safety Measures – Always make sure hair is tied back in a bun or ponytail. Never submerge your head under water. Keeping your head above water at all times to ensure your hair does not become entangled. Knowing where the off switch is for your hot tub pumps will also ensure quick recovery in case such a situation arises.

4. Burns – Hot tub temperatures which are considerably high pose a threat to children. Not only can it burn the skin but water which is too hot can also cause heat stroke and fainting. Fainting in a hot tub can be very dangerous and can potentially cause fatality.

Safety Measures – Always keep the water temperature in your hot tub under 104 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature of the water should be lowered when children are submerged since their skin is more sensitive and more likely to burn.

Warning your children of the dangers can help to prevent hot tub injuries. If a serious injury arises in the hot tub do not hesitate to call an ambulance, at 911, or other form of medical help in order to receive the assistance you require. Do not let your children become part of the statistics listed above.

About The Author
Terri Greene works as a contributing editor for the http://www.hottubsandhomespas.com website which offers information about hottubs - for everything from steam rooms to spa comfort accessories.