How to Keep Children Safe Around Hot Tubs
Are you contemplating the idea of adding a hot tub to your home, but concerns about your children’s safety are holding you back? Fear not! In this guide, we’ll explore essential tips to help you create a safe environment for your kids while enjoying the soothing benefits of a hot tub. From installing anti-skid treads to adjusting water temperature and maintaining supervision, these measures can help keep everyone safe with a hot tub at home.
Install Anti-Skid Treads
One of the first steps in making your hot tub child-friendly is to install anti-skid treads on external or internal hot tub steps. These textured strips adhere to the surfaces both internally and externally, providing a non-slip area for both adults and children. Hot tub surfaces can become slippery, especially when wet, posing a potential hazard. By adding anti-skid treads, you significantly reduce the risk of slips and falls, creating a secure environment for everyone.
Also, determine if the area around your hot tub is slick. Whether you have decking or a poured concrete pad, adding some texture can help cut down on accidents when kids are excited for spa time.
Adjust Water Temperature
Regulating the water temperature is key when it comes to children’s safety around hot tubs.
The recommended temperature for hot tubs is generally around 100 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit for adults. However, for children, it’s advisable to lower the temperature to 92-98 degrees Fahrenheit when kids are in the mix. Children are more sensitive to changes in temperature, and high temperatures can lead to discomfort or even dehydration. Always check the water temperature before allowing your children to enter, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Keep Your Kids Hydrated
While soaking in a hot tub, it’s easy for both children and adults to become dehydrated. Remind your kids to stay hydrated by providing water and nutrient-rich snacks that are hot-tub-area friendly. Choose from a selection of:
- Water
- Juice
- Drink pouches
- Electrolyte drinks
- Apples
- Grapes
- Oranges
- Watermelon
- Cucumber
- Celery
- And more…
Establishing short breaks for fun, healthy snacks, and hydration can prevent dehydration and maintain a comfortable experience in the hot tub. Ensure that your children are aware of the importance of staying hydrated, making it a habit that promotes overall well-being.
Supervise Your Children
Perhaps the top aspect of ensuring hot tub safety for children is supervision. Always keep a close eye on your kids while they are in or around the hot tub.
Young children can be unpredictable, and accidents can happen quickly. By maintaining constant supervision, you can react promptly to any unforeseen circumstances and ensure that your children are using the hot tub safely. Additionally, sharing this amazing experience as a family enhances the overall enjoyment of your hot tub. Take time to ask about their day, play hot tub games together, and enjoy each other’s company. It’s the best way to keep them safe when everyone is looking out for each other.
Install a Locking Hot Tub Cover
When you and your children aren’t using the hot tub, locking the cover is a good safety measure. Children are curious by nature and they can wander from the eyes of even the most vigilant parent or caregiver. However, with a locked cover, you can make sure that even if they explore near the hot tub, they can’t get in.
Always be sure to lock the cover once you’re done with the hot tub. If your cover has a key, keep it out of reach of your children at all times.
Keep Hot Tub Safety Rules Posted
Much like a pool, having a sign of safety rules for your hot tub is a good idea. You can even make it with your kids as a project. As you make the sign, go over why each rule is important, like “Walking feet at all times” and “Gentle hands in the hot tub — no pushing or shoving.” Then before each soak, go over the rules to remind your kids about safety.
Find the Right Hot Tub for Your Family with Home Improvement Financing from HFS
Investing in a hot tub can be a fantastic addition to your home, providing relaxation and family bonding. By following these safety tips, you can create a secure environment for your children to enjoy this delightful amenity. Remember, it’s not just about safety — it’s about making lasting memories together as a family.
If you’re ready to make this exciting addition to your home and are looking for the right hot tub financing options, explore the home improvement financing and remodeling loans with HFS Financial. With competitive home improvement loan rates, we can help turn your hot tub dreams into a reality. Take the plunge into family relaxation and fun, all while prioritizing your children’s safety. Apply with HFS Financial today. “You Dream It, We Finance It.”