People splurging on hot tubs usually have the motive of ensuring that all family members get the most joy out of it. However, that is often not possible when the splurge is made by a person who happens to have small children in the household. Hot tubs are usually known to not be kid-friendly. Multiple incidents since the 1990s have reported the drowning of kids of ages below five in hot tubs. Hot tubs, while an ideal fixture to help you spend some time with your family, come with hazards posed for kids.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission has reported that the main hazard that is usually associated with the use of hot tubs is drowning – especially when it comes to kids. Around one-fifth of hot tub related deaths were of children that were under five years old. However, there are guidelines that you can follow that guarantee a safer hot tub experience for your entire family.
Adult Supervision with kids
According to the CPSC, the maximum number of hot tub related accidents was due to people getting their hair stuck in the suction fitting of the hot tub. This leads to the person’s head getting held underwater. Thus, it is of paramount importance that consumers ensure that their drain covers meet the required standard by CPSC. Hair entanglement also occurs when kids submerge their head underwater for games – holding your head underwater is prohibited in a hot tub.
When kids are in a tub, an adult must always be present to make sure they don’t play these dangerous games and keep their head above water. In instances where the drain cover is not available or missing, shut down the cover of the hot tub to avoid any risky accidents.
Temperature with Kids
Infants and toddlers have thin skin that makes them prone to overheating. It is recommended that you avoid taking an infant into the hot tub; however, in case you do, monitor the hot tub’s temperature and make sure it does not go above 98 degrees. It is highly recommended that children not use the hot tub for more than five minutes in instances where the temperature is 104degreesFahrenheit.
If you’re adamant on having your little ones experience a hot tub, try using the jump seat on the side of the hot tub that does not allow for a full-body soak but just waist-length immersion, keeping in mind the time limit does not go beyond fifteen minutes at a time.
Educate the kids
It is important to educate your kids about the hazards and safety protocols involved with the hot tub. In the event of an emergency, make sure you have taught your kids where the cut-off switch for the pump is to avoid any accidents. Teach them to drink fresh water during hot tub soaks to avoid any dehydration.
When the hot tub is not being utilized, use a locked safety cover to prevent any un-chaperoned kids from activating it.
So there you have it. You don’t have to give up on the joys of hot tubs just because you have little children. At The Pool Spa Billiard Store, we have a variety of hot tubs, and we can guide you when it comes to the best ones to get within your bud
