Basic
Pool/Spa Safety
Safety
is the watchword in all water-based environments, and your
spa is no different. By learning and adhering to a few simple
tips, you’ll ensure an enjoyable spa experience for
your friends and family.
•
Maintain constant adult supervision when children are in or
near ANY body of water.
•
Install fences, barriers and spa covers to prevent unsupervised
access, especially by young children.
•
Always completely remove your spa cover before using your
spa.
•
Inspect your spa equipment on a regular basis to ensure that
it is in good working order and that it is safe.
•
Always test the temperature of your spa’s water before
entering the spa. It is recommended that maximum water temperature
never exceed 104°F (40°C). Do not soak for more than
15 minutes at one sitting in 104°F (40°C) water.
•
Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as heart
disease, diabetes, high or low blood pressure, and pregnant
women, should not use a spa without advance approval by their
physician. If a person has any doubt as to whether a medical
condition should limit their use of a spa, they should seek
prior consultation with their physician. Individuals with
open cuts or wounds should not use a spa until completely
healed
•
Never use a spa when you are alone and never use a spa while
using or after using alcohol or drugs that may cause sleepiness,
drowsiness, or raise or lower blood pressure.
•
Ask your city about any specific rules and regulations that
apply to spa ownership, including local electrical codes.
•
Do not allow unsafe or risky behavior in and around the spa.
•
Consult with a licensed electrician for installation of or
any work to your spa. If you are installing your own spa,
it is your responsibility that all work performed complies
with the National Electrical Code and all other applicable
codes and regulations.
•
Your spa’s jets, grates, skimmer and main drain should
be properly maintained and secured. Spa users should be instructed
not to stick any part of their body into such outlets as entrapment
and drowning can occur. Spa users with long hair should also
be cautioned not to get their hair near such outlets.
•
Keep a first aid kit in close proximity to your spa.
•
Maintenance and safety manuals contain detailed tips and recommendations
and should be read, followed and applied on a regular basis.
•
We encourage all spa owners to request safety related publications
from the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals (APSP),
including: “The Sensible Way To Enjoy Your Spa or Hot
Tub,” and “Pool and Spa Emergency Procedures for
Infants and Children.” These APSP publications can be
ordered from the APSP by calling or writing them at the APSP,
2111 Eisenhower Avenue, Suite 500, Alexandria, VA 22314, (703)
838-0083, or by visiting the APSP consumer Web site at www.theapsp.org. |
