Drowning is always a risk around any body of water, especially for children below 5 years old. If you are considering getting a hot tub for your home, you may be wondering whether you should allow your children to use it.
While there is no one clear answer on this, the general recommendation is that kids under 5 should never be allowed in a hot tub.
If your child is older, ask yourself: is their head completely above water when standing in a hot tub? If the answer is no, it’s best to wait till they are a little more grown.
In this article, we share with you some precautions to take when using hot tubs for kids.
1. Adjust the Temperature
Many hot tubs have a default temperature of 104 degrees Fahrenheit. That may be fine when it’s just adults using it, but if you have a child joining you, you may want to consider adjusting the temperature to 98 degrees.
Even with the lower temperature, children should not be allowed to soak for more than 15 minutes at a time.
As children’s bodies do not have the same ability to dissipate heat like adult bodies, they should never be allowed to soak as long as you do as this can result in heat stroke and subsequent unconsciousness.
2. Get Drain Covers Fitted
Children love to play – and this can even extend to the hot tub. Always educate your children about hot tub safety and let them know that they should never submerge their heads underwater or chase each other around.
It’s easy for long hair to get tangled in the suction fitting of a hot tub, essentially holding the victim’s head underwater and potentially resulting in drowning. To this end, always get a drain cover fitted and lock up your hot tub when not in use.
3. Keep Hydrated and Ensure Waist-High Immersion
When in a hot tub, ensure your child stays hydrated with plenty of fresh water. They should also let you know immediately if they feel unwell in any way, such as being dizzy or lightheaded.
At the first sign of discomfort, get your child out of the hot tub immediately. Children should also be seated on jump seats that allow only waist-high immersion instead of full-body immersion.
4. Purchase High-Quality Hot Tubs at AquaVision Pool & Spa
Are you looking to add a hot tub to your home? If so, you have come to the right place at AquaVision Pool & Spa.
Whether you need a cozy tub for two or a larger one that can accommodate guests, we have the perfect hot tub for you.
We stock a wide range of models under the Sundance line to suit up to 6+ occupants and can recommend the most suitable one for your needs.
If you would like more information or a recommendation, please feel free to contact us and a member of staff will be in touch as soon as possible.
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