Do you plan on relaxing and enjoying yourself in a spa this new year? If so, that’s awesome! However, are you aware of the safety risks? Oh, yes. Pool and spa injuries are far more common than you might expect. In fact, many people every year drown while in their pool or at a spa. So, what can you do to stay safe? Here are 5 safety tips for the spa from Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys.
Sanitize the Water
No matter which body of water you decide to swim in, you should make sure the water is sanitized. You can purchase kits that test the pH and sanitization levels of the water. Cloudy water with a strong, musty odor is a sign that the water is unclean and should not be entered. The water should be clear and should not have a musty odor. Smells from chemicals such as chlorine or bromine are normal, however, so do not mistake them for problems with the water.
Eat and Drink Carefully
If you decide to eat or drink while in a hot tub or pool, make sure you do it the right way. Cups and plates should not be glass. You should use only shatter-resistant plastic plates and cups to fulfill your needs. In addition, make sure your food and drinks are stored safely away from the hot tub/pool. Keep them in a place where they will not fall into the pool. If a mess does occur, you should clean it up immediately.
Medical Considerations
You should be aware if your health permits you to enter a hot tub/pool. For example, diabetics could have complications when entering a hot tub. Keep the following in mind:
- Keep your hot tub at 100°F–102°F. This is an accepted, safe range according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commision (CPSC).
- Check with your doctor to make sure you’re healthy enough for pool and spa activity. If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or a variety of other conditions, you may not be able to enter a hot tub/pool.
- It is optimal to keep the hot tub temperature lower, preferably 95°F or cooler, for young children.
- Pregnant women should use hot tubs only with the most extreme caution and permission from their doctor beforehand.
Electronic Devices
Do not bring any electronic devices near a hot tub or pool! Not only can electronic devices break if they get wet, but they can also short-circuit and electrocute you. Electronic devices with cords plugged in are particularly dangerous. If an electronic device falls into the hot tub/pool, never reach in to grab it yourself. Make sure you exit the hot tub/pool immediately. Check that all devices are unplugged and off before you retrieve them, and only then retrieve them. If possible, use a pool skimmer and rubber soled shoes, just to be safe.
Tend to the Children
Children should never be left alone in a hot tub/pool. Someone must always watch them, as leaving them alone for even a moment can result in devastating consequences. You yourself should always watch your children unless a close and trusted friend is available to watch them for you.
The person that watches over others in the hot tub/pool is the water watcher, and their sole duty is to keep an eye on the people in the hot tub/pool. They act as a lifeguard. The water watcher should never be distracted. Cell phones should be kept nearby only for emergencies, and distractions should be kept to a minimum.
Suffer From a Spa Injury?
If you’re suffering from a spa-related injury due to the negligence of another, don’t wait to call Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys. We work hard to get you the compensation you deserve. Visit us during our office hours, which are Monday – Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Additionally, you can give us a call anytime at 844-977-1900. If you prefer, you can contact us online and check out our LiveChat feature. Consultations are free, and we don’t collect fees until we win your case. So don’t wait; contact Lerner and Rowe today!