Hot Tub Safety Tips You Need To Know

Hot tubs are a great addition to any home because they are a relaxing way to unwind after a long day or spend quality time with friends and family. However, hot tubs can pose certain safety risks if not used properly. Read on to learn about the most important hot tub safety tips you need to know to make sure everyone has a safe and fun time.

Cover Your Hot Tub When Not in Use

Covered hot tubs prevent accidents, especially for children and pets. An uncovered hot tub is hazardous for anyone who accidentally falls in or trips on the edge. A covered tub keeps the water clean and at the right temperature, cuts down on water loss, and keeps debris from falling into the water.

When you cover the tub, you clean or treat the tub with chemicals less frequently. Cover your hot tub if you live in an area with water restrictions or where water is hard to get to save water.

Supervise Children

Parents or guardians must keep a watchful eye on their children while they are in or near a hot tub. Children are naturally curious and might not know that a hot tub can be dangerous. Have a responsible adult supervise them at all times.

Teach your children about hot tub safety, and set clear rules for their behavior. Ensure they only use the hot tub when someone is watching them so they don't drown if they fall in accidentally. Secure the hot tub area with a fence cover or install alarms that alert adults when someone enters the site.

Don't Use Alcohol or Drugs

Alcohol and drugs impair your ability to make good decisions, balance, and work with others, which makes accidents and injuries more likely. When mixed with hot temperatures, they have a stronger effect and make you feel dizzy, sick, or faint.

You could fall asleep, lose consciousness, or drown in the tub when you are drunk. Drugs increase the risk of dehydration, which causes a range of symptoms, including dizziness, headaches, and nausea. Stay hydrated, and take regular breaks from the hot tub to avoid overheating or dehydration. 

Set a Safe Water Temperature

High temperatures pose a significant risk, especially for individuals with sensitive skin or children. Exposure to temperatures that are too high causes severe burns and other injuries. The recommended safe water temperature for a hot tub is between 100°F and 104°F (37.7°C and 40°C).

This range provides optimal relaxation benefits and minimizes the risk of injury. Avoid temperatures above this range because they cause burns or other injuries, while temperatures below this range may not provide enough relaxation benefits. For safety, adjust the water to the right temperature.

Keep the Area Clear

Maintain a clear area around your hot tub to prevent accidents and injuries. Always ensure the surrounding space is free of clutter and other obstacles that could cause someone to trip or fall. Pool toys, patio furniture, or other items might pose a risk around the tub.

Keep electrical appliances, cords, and other potential hazards away from the hot tub as well. Avoid electrical accidents because water and electricity are dangerous when combined. Install tiles or mats that don't slip around the hot tub to make a surface that won't let people slip and fall.

At Anchor Pools & Spas, we will make sure that your investment lasts as long as possible and give you high-quality hot tubs and professional maintenance services. If you have any questions about hot tub safety or would like to schedule a maintenance appointment, please don't hesitate to contact us today.