A hot tub provides a wonderful way to relax, but there are a few safety tips that you need to follow to keep the experience a safe one. This is especially important if you have children who will be using the hot tub. Drowning can and does happen in hot tubs, so be sure to follow safety recommendations.
The Age of the User
Most adults are fine in a hot tub, but it can be a very different experience for a young child. The best practice is simply to not let infants and toddlers in the hot tub at all. Infants should not be in a spa because the high temperatures can harm them. Infants have trouble regulating their own temperature, so a hot tub can overwhelm them. Toddlers might spend about five minutes in a hot tub with close supervision, but that's only if they can stand in the tub while keeping their heads and shoulders out of the water. This is the absolute minimum height that should be allowed in the hot tub, and that's only when you are right there to supervise.
Keep It Sanitary
Hot tub water will take on body oils, sweat, loose hair, and other debris after being used. It's best to make sure the hot tub has been sanitized regularly to keep the water from spreading diseases. Check your levels often and make sure to take a look at the filters and the pump periodically to make sure they are working. If you have an open wound or an illness, it's best to stay out of the spa until you are well again and free from symptoms for at least 48 hours.
Keep Chemicals in a Safe Spot
There are a lot of chemicals that should be used on your hot tub to keep it clean, clear, and sanitary. However, none of these chemicals should be handled by children. Depending on your child's age, you may need to put them in a cabinet with a lock in order to prevent any accidental poisonings. If your children are older, you might keep them in a safe place and let them know that the substances are poisonous.
Safe Temperatures
The hot water is soothing to the muscles and skin, but, how hot should it really be? It can be set as high as 104 if that's your preference. If you will have a toddler in it for a short time, you might consider a temperature in the 90s to avoid them getting too hot. If you are pregnant, it's best to ask your doctor whether you can use a hot tub. If you can, the recommendation is generally to spend up to 15 minutes in the spa with it set at up to 102.
Monitor Your Health
Being in the hot tub is likely not something you should do if you have conditions like high blood pressure or heart disease. Ask your doctor about hot tubs if you have these or any other serious diseases or conditions. If you are healthy enough to be in the hot tub, be sure to notice when you've had enough time in it. If your heart beats too fast, you feel faint, your stomach hurts or you are dizzy, get out of the hot tub right away. To prevent some of these problems, be sure to have a beverage nearby that you can drink periodically. This keeps you from getting too dehydrated as the hot tub causes you to sweat.
Hot tubs are the best when they are used safely and carefully. Remember the safety rules and talk to your doctor if you're unsure whether you're able to use one. You can also contact us for more information.