What is Hot Tub Safety?

Although hot tubs provide a relaxing and soothing area, there are potential dangers associated with their warm waters.  Understanding the risks posed by a hot tub is essential for staying safe and maintaining the area as a place of happiness and relaxation. Read this article to get an idea of some of the hazards associated with hot tubs and how you can mitigate any dangers.

Keep it clean

Untreated water can allow bacteria and viruses to grow in your hot tub’s warm water. Regularly check the tub’s pH and sanitizer levels and adjust accordingly.  There are cleaning products that can be added after every use to ensure safe and clean water.

​Hot Tub Chemicals

​Make sure to keep hot tub chemicals in a secure, dry, well ventilated  place out of the reach of children and animals.  Make sure to read and follow the instructions of any hot tub chemicals. Never mix chemicals unless explicitly instructed to do so.  Do not add chemicals to the hot tub while it’s in use and be careful of strong winds.  You should wear protective clothing when handling chemicals and make sure to wash your hands after use.

​Drugs, Alcohol and Health Issues

You should not drink alcohol while in your hot tub.  Save it for afterwards.  Hot water can increase alcohol’s effects and cause overheating, dehydration and drowsiness. Drink cold water to keep hydrated and maintain a proper body temperature. For those on prescription drugs or with health concerns such as diabetes, heart disease, blood pressure issues or pregnancy should consult with a doctor before using a hot tub.

Children

​Do not leave children unattended in the hot tub for any length of time.  Children may be more sensitive to hot water and shouldn’t spend more than 5 or 10 minutes at a time in the tub.  Have children use higher seats so they aren’t fully submerged.

Suction Covers

​Older hot tubs may not have adequate suction covers which can trap clothing and hair. This can be especially dangerous for children.  Make sure your suction covers are VGB compliant, especially if your hot tub is more than 30 years old.

Electricity

​Ensure your tub is properly wired and grounded and has an easily accessible ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) disconnect box that’s at least five feet away from the tub.  Do not use extension cords to plug in your hot tub.  When installing your tub, make sure it’s not near any power lines.  Do not use any electrical hardware such as radios or stereos near the hot tub.  If using a wet vacuum for cleaning make sure your hands and feet are dry, you’re wearing rubber soled shoes and you’re not standing in any pools of water.

Hot Tub Protection

Certain municipalities require fences of a certain height to surround swimming pools and hot tubs to prevent curious children from entering. Check your local bylaws.  Hot tub covers should be lockable and well-fitting to prevent access by children or pets. Do not allow kids to play on top of the hot tub cover.

Surrounding Area

​Certain municipalities require fences of a certain height to surround swimming pools and hot tubs to prevent curious children from entering.  Check your local bylaws.  Hot tub covers should be lockable and well-fitting to prevent access by children or pets. Do not allow kids to play on top of the hot tub cover.

Other Safety Tips

Using your hot tub with a partner will ensure help is available should anything untoward happen.  Do not allow people to dive or jump into the hot tub.  It may appear much deeper than it actually is.  Limit your soaks to a 15 minute maximum before cooling off.  Most tubs have a 104F limit, although 100 to 102F are safer temperatures.

Written by Hydropool Hot Tubs