Spa and Hot Tub Safety Tips

Keep the Spa Water Healthy

Number one is to always ensure an adequate level of sanitizer is being used to keep the hot tub spa water free of harmful microorganisms. Monitor the Total Alkalinity (TA) and pH to maintain a healthy balance. Shocking the water regularly will increase the sanitizer's ability to effectively control bacteria. Keep all chemicals, additives and cleaning compounds in a cool, dry, well ventilated location, away from direct sunlight and out of the reach of children. Never mix spa chemicals together prior to adding them to the spa water.

Not Too Hot!

It is safer, and more invigorating to not sit in a hot tub for too long at any one time, especially in elevated water temperatures. Soaking in too-high water temperatures can raise body heat to hazardous levels. A maximum soaking temperature of 100° to 102° F for about 15 minutes is the recommendation of some medical authorities. If the hot tub spa does not have a digital temperature readout indicator, using a floating thermometer is a good idea. Time and temperature should both be reduced when young children are joining the adults in the spa. For those with very young children or certain medical conditions, a quick consultation with the family doctor is suggested for peace of mind. Children should never be allowed in or around an uncovered hot tub or spa without an adult attending. An unsupervised hot tub can be a strong attraction to a curious child. Always use a locked safety cover when the spa is not in use.

Heads Up

Product safety standards have been developed that require spas to have specially shaped drain outlets and covers to prevent hair entanglement in the drain. These standards also require two outlets for each pump, thereby reducing the powerful suction if one drain is blocked. Even with these safety measures in place, it is an important rule to never allow play with heads underwater in a spa. Be certain there is a GFCI-protected power disconnect device installed, and know where it is and how to use it in an emergency.

Don't Get Zapped

Water and electricity can be a deadly mix. All electrical outlets and devices should be located a safe distance away from your spa or hot tub - never on the spa edge. Even handling a corded appliance or telephone when hands or bare feet are in contact with water around a spa or pool can result in electrocution!

Another caution is the amplification effect hot water has on alcohol and certain medications. An icy soft drink or even chilled mineral water served in a non-breakable tumbler can be a very refreshing alternative.

Watch Your Step

Keep dry towels handy, and include a non-skid surface around the perimeter of the spa to reduce slipping with wet feet. Hot tub installation should accompany installation of sturdy spa steps and a handrail to help to prevent an accidental spill when entering or exiting the spa. Provide ground-level lighting for nighttime use.

Good luck with your selection, and continue on with our next installment:

Spa Energy Conservation

David Williams, owner of Spadepot.com, has over 20 years experience in the hot tub and spa business. An expert in his field, David has been working with hot tubs since 1990 and started in the spa business in 1997. He is the expert author of the SpaCyclopedia and has invented many products for the hot tub industry which are sold worldwide. Also known under the persona of "Dr. Tubbs" for 5 years, David has trained and supervised a staff of 20 employees in this industry.