A hot tub offers a perfect way to relax, relieve stress, and unwind after a long day. But as enjoyable as they are, it’s important to prioritize safety for yourself, your family, and any guests using your hot tub. By following a few essential safety guidelines, you can enjoy the many benefits of your hot tub with peace of mind.
At Blue Lagoon Pools, we’re committed to ensuring that our customers have a safe and enjoyable hot tub experience. Below are some crucial tips to keep in mind to maintain a safe and healthy hot tub environment.
Related Post: The Health Benefits of Hot Tubs
1. Avoid Alcohol in the Hot Tub
While it may sound tempting to enjoy a glass of wine or a cold beer while soaking in your hot tub, it’s not a safe practice. Alcohol and hot tubs don’t mix well due to the combination of high temperatures and alcohol’s dehydrating effects. Hot water causes blood vessels to expand, which can increase the effects of alcohol and lead to overheating, dizziness, or even fainting.
For a safe and refreshing experience, stick to hydrating beverages like water or sparkling water while in the hot tub.
2. Maintain Healthy and Balanced Water
Keeping your hot tub water clean and balanced is critical to preventing harmful bacteria, algae, and other microbes from developing. Unbalanced water can irritate the skin and eyes, and even lead to more serious health concerns. Before each soak, follow these steps to ensure the water is properly balanced:
- Visual Inspection: Check the water to ensure it’s clear and odorless. Cloudy water or unusual smells may indicate a water imbalance.
- Test Your Water: Use a test kit or strips to check the pH, total alkalinity, calcium hardness, and sanitizer levels. Adjust as needed before using the hot tub.
- Circulate Water: Make sure your hot tub’s pump is working properly to ensure even distribution of chemicals throughout the water.
Following these steps regularly will keep your water safe and extend the life of your hot tub.
Bonus Tip: Make sure you know which chemicals are essential for your hot tub. Check out our [comprehensive guide to hot tub chemicals](link to chemicals blog).
3. Monitor Hot Tub Temperature to Avoid Overheating
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends keeping your hot tub temperature no higher than 104°F for healthy adults, but 100°F is a more comfortable and safe temperature. Prolonged exposure to water above this temperature can lead to overheating, dizziness, and fainting. For individuals with medical conditions, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider before using a hot tub.
To avoid overheating, limit your soak time to 15-30 minutes and be sure to get out of the tub if you feel dizzy, overheated, or lightheaded.
4. Keep Small Children and Pets Safe
For families with small children, hot tubs should be used with caution. It’s generally recommended that children under the age of 5 should avoid hot tubs, as their bodies are more susceptible to overheating. The high temperature of the water can raise their core temperature too quickly, putting them at risk of heat-related illnesses.
Additionally, children who aren’t tall enough to stand with their heads fully above water should not be allowed in the hot tub. Always supervise young children closely and keep them within arm’s reach at all times when around the hot tub.
The same goes for pets—while your furry friend might want to join you, hot tubs are not safe for animals. Pets can overheat more quickly than humans and may also be tempted to drink the chemically-treated water, which can be harmful.
5. Use the Buddy System
Though relaxing in a hot tub might seem like a solitary activity, it’s best to have someone nearby in case of an emergency. There are several potential hazards associated with hot tub use, such as slipping, fainting, or experiencing a medical issue due to overheating. Having a friend or family member nearby can provide the help you need in case of an unexpected situation.
If you’re using a public hot tub, be extra cautious and always have someone with you to monitor the situation.
Bonus Tip: If you’re traveling and using a public hot tub, the CDC suggests following the “HOT” method—Heed, Observe, and Talk. Always check for posted safety regulations, observe the water conditions, and talk to staff about the hot tub’s cleaning schedule and maintenance.
6. Install Barriers and Use a Cover
One of the most important steps for hot tub safety is ensuring that your hot tub is properly covered when not in use. A high-quality, ASTM-certified hot tub cover with a sturdy locking mechanism can prevent children or pets from accidentally entering the hot tub unsupervised.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to install safety barriers such as fencing or a locking gate around your hot tub to keep unauthorized users out. This is especially important for households with small children or pets.
7. Create a Safe Environment Around the Hot Tub
When installing a hot tub, ensure there is ample space around it for safe entry and exit. Crowding a hot tub into a tight space can lead to slips and falls when people are entering or exiting the tub. Non-slip surfaces around the hot tub are also important to prevent accidents.
If you’ve installed your hot tub on a deck or patio, be sure the area is well-lit and free of tripping hazards to create a safer environment for everyone.
Final Thoughts
A hot tub is a great investment in relaxation and well-being, but safety should always be a top priority. By following these safety tips, you can ensure that your hot tub experience is as safe as it is enjoyable. Whether it’s maintaining balanced water, monitoring temperatures, or keeping children and pets safe, a little preparation goes a long way.
At Blue Lagoon Pools, we are dedicated to helping you get the most out of your hot tub while ensuring the safety of you and your loved ones. For more tips on hot tub care, or to browse our selection of hot tubs, chemicals, and accessories, visit our store in Sinking Spring, PA.
